explanatory sign

USAGE SUMMARY

"explanatory sign" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a sign, such as a street sign or warning sign, that is used to provide information or explanation about something. For example, "We followed the explanatory sign to find our way to the lake."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

An explanatory sign is even pulled across the stage as the play begins, reminiscent of the lettered opening sequences of so many silent films.

The New York Times

Sliding Scale Donate What You Can!" He quickly drew the ire and ridicule of the fussiest corners of the Internet when a photo of him, crucially obscuring his explanatory sign, was posted to Reddit.

The New Yorker

A few years ago, Ronald D. Jones, a committee member who lives a short distance away from the Beckley Furnace, helped Mr. Hall create an explanatory sign about the furnace.

The New York Times

I called out to her departing back, "No, I didn't cut these down, the Parks Department is pruning these trees!" But with no explanatory sign to that effect around my neck, I worked hard to avoid eye contact the rest of the way.

The New York Times

A stump from a 40-year-old black cherry tree blown down by Hurricane Sandy is left in place (with an explanatory sign), but we are not told that the loss of the tree meant that the shade-loving plants at its feet had to be calculatedly altered.

The New York Times

This is because, an explanatory sign said, the camera projects a million infrared beams to detect changes in depth, so is able to detect human presences invisible to the naked eye.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

(There were explanatory signs).

The New York Times - Arts

There was nothing of the museum about the visit – no special exhibitions or explanatory signs.

The Guardian

It would have been too small for trucks, he said, and it would have required a plethora of explanatory signs.

The New York Times

These and other historical objects would be arrayed with explanatory signs on a five-block-long Artifact Walk, bordering a waterfront park.

The New York Times

For a decade, according to Winders, the Daughters have been trying, in vain, to get permission from City Hall to put up some explanatory signs on municipal property bordering the plaza.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "explanatory sign", ensure the sign clearly and concisely explains the subject to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using jargon or overly technical terms on an "explanatory sign". The purpose is to clarify, not confuse, so use plain language accessible to a broad audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "explanatory sign" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a sign that provides information or explanation about something.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "explanatory sign" is a noun phrase used to describe a sign that provides information or clarification. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for a range of contexts. Although it is not overly common, occurring primarily in news, media, and scientific publications, it effectively serves its purpose of informing and educating the audience. Remember to use clear and concise language on any "explanatory signs" to ensure they are easily understood. Consider alternatives like "informative marker" or "descriptive label" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

informative marker

Replaces "sign" with a synonym and "explanatory" with a word emphasizing the information provided.

descriptive label

Substitutes "sign" with a term highlighting the labeling function and "explanatory" with a word describing its role.

interpretive panel

"Panel" replaces "sign", suggesting a larger display, while "interpretive" conveys the explanatory function.

captioned display

"Captioned" focuses on the text aspect of explanation and "display" broadens the term beyond a simple sign.

guidepost with details

Guidepost suggests directionality in addition to explanation, while 'with details' substitutes explanatory.

instructive placard

"Placard" is a more formal synonym for sign and "instructive" highlights the educational aspect.

annotated marker

"Annotated" describes the explanatory nature through added notes and "marker" is a general term for signs.

elucidating signage

Signage refers to a collection of signs. Elucidating is a more technical and formal way of saying explanatory.

revealing indicator

Indicator highlights the function of showing or pointing out, while revealing describes explanation.

clarifying notice

"Notice" is a general term for conveying information and "clarifying" specifies the explanatory role.

FAQs

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

You can use "explanatory sign" to describe a sign that provides information or clarification. For example, "The museum placed an "explanatory sign" next to the artifact to describe its historical significance".

What's the difference between an "explanatory sign" and an "interpretive sign"?

While both provide information, an "explanatory sign" focuses on factual explanations, whereas an "interpretive sign" often aims to provide context, meaning, or a deeper understanding of the subject.

What are some synonyms for "explanatory sign"?

Some synonyms for "explanatory sign" include "informative marker", "descriptive label", or "instructive placard".

Where are "explanatory signs" commonly used?

"Explanatory signs" are frequently found in museums, parks, historical sites, and other public spaces to provide visitors with information about exhibits, landmarks, or points of interest.