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Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
by indication of
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "by indication of" is not commonly used in written English and may sound awkward or unclear.
It could be used in contexts where you want to refer to something that is indicated or suggested by someone or something, but it is better to use more standard expressions. Example: "The decision was made by indication of the committee's recommendations."
Science
News & Media
Academia
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
11 human-written examples
The coefficient c is obtained by indication of 10 decimal numbers in order to find the precise values of reliability for the individual elements.
For consistent interpretation of the measurement results, it is necessary to evaluate the confidence that can be placed in, therefore, the presentation of an analytical result which must be accompanied by indication of the data quality.
Sensitivity analysis showed that this finding was not caused by confounding by indication of family history.
Science
Though GMM currently has several unclear issues which have to be resolved, it should give us an additional dimension of QTL impacts by indication of multiple QTL interactions.
Science
Only one of the previous birth defect studies classified nitrosatable drugs by indication of use, and none classified these drugs by molecular structure (i.e. secondary amines, tertiary amines, or amides).
For a random sample of children with an indication for treatment and without record of palivizumab exposure in the drug register, numbers and proportions by indication of treatment as noted in medical records were presented.
Science
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
49 human-written examples
"We are within a handful of votes of defeating the government on this issue, and we have been overwhelmed by indications of support," said Porter.
News & Media
In Mexico, researchers have observed these traits compounded by indications of significant misinformation among suing workers, overconfidence in outcomes, and lawsuit inflation, particularly for plaintiffs represented by private layers.
The earliest evidence for human presence on these islands at 13.1 12.9 ka (∼11,000 10,900 14C years) is followed by an apparent 600 800 year gap in the archaeological record, which is followed by indications of a larger-scale colonization after 12.2 ka.
Science
The Russian government, alarmed by indications of a closer cooperation between the Triple Alliance and Britain and by some signs of a pro-Polish attitude in Berlin, reluctantly turned toward France.
Encyclopedias
Minutes after takeoff, the pilots reported hearing "two almost coincident 'loud bangs,' followed shortly after by indications of a failure of the No. 2 engine" and intermittent warnings of an engine fire, the report said.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
Use "by indication of" when you specifically want to emphasize that something is being pointed out or designated in a particular way.
Common error
Avoid using "by indication of" in informal contexts or when simpler phrases would convey the same meaning more effectively. Overly formal language can make your writing sound stilted or pretentious.
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "by indication of" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, specifying the means or basis for an action or conclusion. It serves to highlight the evidential or signaling nature of the indication. While grammatically sound, Ludwig suggests that more common alternatives may enhance clarity.
Frequent in
Science
70%
News & Media
15%
Academia
15%
Less common in
Formal & Business
0%
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, the phrase "by indication of" is a grammatically acceptable, though somewhat formal, prepositional phrase used to specify a basis or justification. Ludwig suggests that alternatives like "as indicated by" or "suggested by" are generally clearer and more common. It appears most frequently in scientific and academic contexts. While not incorrect, consider your audience and the desired level of formality when choosing to use "by indication of".
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
as indicated by
This alternative is more direct and commonly used to show evidence or confirmation.
suggested by
This alternative implies a less definitive or weaker connection.
evidenced by
This alternative highlights tangible proof or factual basis.
in light of
This alternative focuses on considering available information before making a judgment.
based on the signal of
This alternative is similar to "by indication of" but slightly more verbose.
according to the signs of
This alternative is more specific to physical or observable indications.
from the evidence of
This alternative highlights that a conclusion is drawn from available data.
derived from the hint of
This alternative implies that the conclusion is obtained by using small or subtle indications.
as a result of the allusion to
This alternative suggests that something is inferred from a subtle reference.
following the lead of
This alternative is more directional, suggesting one is guided by particular signals.
FAQs
What does "by indication of" mean?
The phrase "by indication of" suggests something is being pointed out, evidenced, or signaled by something else. However, it is often more clear and concise to use alternatives such as "as indicated by" or "suggested by".
What can I say instead of "by indication of"?
You can use alternatives like "as indicated by", "suggested by", or "evidenced by" depending on the specific context.
Is it better to say "as indicated by" or "by indication of"?
"As indicated by" is generally preferred over "by indication of" because it is more commonly used and direct, making it clearer to the reader. "By indication of" is not wrong, but it is less common and can sound somewhat awkward.
In what contexts is "by indication of" appropriate?
"By indication of" is most appropriate in formal or scientific contexts where you want to emphasize the act of pointing something out specifically. However, simpler alternatives are often better choices.
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Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
82%
Authority and reliability
3.8/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested