concrete sign

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "concrete sign" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a physical or tangible indication or symbol of something, often in contexts related to communication, signage, or representation. Example: "The concrete sign at the entrance of the park clearly indicates the rules and regulations for visitors."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It's a concrete sign that he wants me to follow him completely".

The New Yorker

It is the only concrete sign that any weapons of mass destruction may have existed.

The Guardian

So far, Obama has not given the concrete sign that we felt was essential.

The Guardian - Opinion

Still, the return of a British embassy to Iran is a concrete sign of progress in a historically strained relationship.

Independent

A concrete sign by the roadside announces the name of their redoubt, Las Aguilas ("The Eagles"), in white letters.

The New York Times

In actual fact Polish Government had not received the slightest concrete sign of a desire for a relaxation of tension.

Yale University

Just look at the banners that dangle from lampposts or the waist-high concrete sign near the Music Building.

The New York Times

The chief United Nations prosecutor, Carla del Ponte, said, "This is the first concrete sign of cooperation".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

"There's no concrete signs of delay".

The New York Times

But since splitting from Time Warner in December, the company has shown few concrete signs of progress.

The New York Times - Tech

Slowly, I began to see concrete signs of the value of passive networking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "concrete sign" when you want to emphasize that something is a clear, tangible indication or evidence of something else, not just a vague feeling or possibility.

Common error

Avoid using "concrete sign" when describing abstract or intangible concepts that lack tangible proof. Ensure there is a clear, observable element that supports the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "concrete sign" functions primarily as a noun phrase, serving to identify a tangible piece of evidence or indication. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "concrete sign" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, primarily within the realm of news and media. As Ludwig AI indicates, it effectively functions as a noun phrase, clearly denoting tangible evidence or indication of something. While suitable for neutral and professional contexts, it's essential to ensure its usage aligns with clear, observable elements. Alternatives like "tangible indication" or "clear signal" can provide nuanced variations depending on the specific intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tangible indication

Replaces "sign" with "indication", emphasizing the demonstrative nature of the evidence.

clear signal

Substitutes "sign" with "signal", suggesting a more direct and unambiguous communication.

definite proof

Replaces "sign" with "proof", highlighting the conclusive nature of the evidence.

visible evidence

Emphasizes the visibility and apparent nature of the "sign".

palpable indicator

Replaces "concrete" and "sign" with more formal synonyms, creating a more sophisticated tone.

real manifestation

Focuses on the actual occurrence or display of something.

actual demonstration

Highlights the active or performed nature of the "sign".

solid evidence

It substitutes "concrete" with "solid", emphasizing the reliability and strength of the evidence.

unequivocal indication

Stresses the clarity and lack of ambiguity in the sign.

irrefutable proof

This alternative emphasizes the impossibility to deny the existence of proof.

FAQs

How can I use "concrete sign" in a sentence?

You can use "concrete sign" to indicate tangible evidence or proof of something. For example, "The new factory is a "concrete sign" of the city's economic recovery".

What can I say instead of "concrete sign"?

You can use alternatives like "tangible indication", "clear signal", or "definite proof depending on the context.

Which is correct, "concrete sign" or "concrete signal"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Concrete sign" implies tangible evidence, while "concrete signal" suggests a clear, direct communication.

What's the difference between "concrete sign" and "tangible sign"?

While similar, ""concrete sign"" often suggests something more definitive and less open to interpretation than "tangible sign", which simply means something that can be perceived by the senses.