as a pointer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a pointer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to indicate something that serves as a reference or guide. Example: "The diagram serves as a pointer to the main concepts we need to focus on during the presentation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Therefore, it acts as a pointer to program memory.

Designing Embedded Systems with PIC Microcontrollers Principles and applications

But it still trails the Golden Globes, widely seen as a pointer to the Oscars.

The Economist

He supervised via barks and backslaps, using his beer bottle as a pointer.

The New Yorker

The vizsla can generally work both as a pointer and as a retriever.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"A snake lives in that hole," she said, using her beam as a pointer.

The New York Times - Travel

-- never use your umbrella as a pointer while making some profound observation about artistic technique.

The New York Times

"The only way to do it is a full-scale invasion," he said, using a pen as a pointer.

The New Yorker

The segment's glutamate concentration is linked to the NMODL file as a pointer (G) by calling h.setpointer.setpointer

Yale University

Despite winning, as a pointer even to England's immediate future, the game offered little beyond its value as a workout.

The Guardian - Sport

Like many dubious rules of usage, the less-fewer distinction has a smidgen of validity as a pointer of style.

The Guardian - Books

In later years, she inspected large gardens from the vantage of a golf cart, using her cane as a pointer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a pointer", ensure that the context clearly establishes what it is pointing to. For example, "This study serves as a pointer to future research avenues."

Common error

Avoid using "as a pointer" when a more direct term like "guide" or "reference" would be more precise. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a pointer" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun. Ludwig AI examples show its role in indicating that something serves as a guide, reference, or direction. Its grammatical correctness is confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a pointer" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that something serves as a guide, reference, or indicator. It's grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, especially in science, news, and academia. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it's important to use it precisely, ensuring clarity and avoiding vagueness. Alternatives like "as an indicator" or "as a guide" may be more appropriate depending on the specific context. The phrase’s function varies from neutral to formal and has a frequency usage labeled as 'Very Common' by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an indicator

Focuses more on the signaling aspect of the phrase.

serving as a reference

Highlights the phrase's function as a source of information.

as a signpost

Implies a clearer, more directive guidance.

as a guide

Suggests a more comprehensive and helpful resource.

acting as a harbinger

Suggests the phrase is a predictor of future events.

as a clue

Highlights the element of mystery or investigation.

working as a signal

Focuses on the communicative function of the phrase.

functioning as a marker

Highlights the phrase's role in identifying or distinguishing something.

as a benchmark

Emphasizes the aspect of setting a standard.

as a touchstone

Suggests a reference point for quality or correctness.

FAQs

How can I use "as a pointer" in a sentence?

Use "as a pointer" to indicate that something is directing attention or providing guidance. For example, "The early data served as a pointer to potential issues."

What's a good alternative to "as a pointer"?

Alternatives include "as an indicator", "as a guide", or "as a reference". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to use "as a pointer" or "as a guide"?

"As a pointer" suggests a direction, while "as a guide" implies more comprehensive assistance. Choose based on whether you're indicating a direction or providing a complete resource.

When is "as a pointer" most appropriate?

It's suitable when something serves to direct attention towards a specific aspect or area, rather than providing comprehensive information or a solution.