indicate frustration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indicate frustration" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a situation where someone expresses or shows their feelings of annoyance or dissatisfaction. Example: "Her tone of voice seemed to indicate frustration when she spoke about the delays in the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Yet despite that, and a terse closing statement from Jets defenseman Ron Hainsey that seemed to indicate frustration on the union side ("We had a series of candid discussions tonight, and we plan on meeting tomorrow")., the players and owners were expected to resume bargaining Thursday afternoon.

The New York Times

The responses indicate frustration on the part of both runners and walkers: denouncing runners "coming at you like steers"; suggesting the use of aerosol horns to blast people going the wrong way; describing the one-way advocates as "judgmental, petty people".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There is a certain logic: the Brexit vote indicated frustration with the political and economic status quo, for which EU membership happened to be the proxy.

The Guardian - Opinion

The door guy said it was "list only," so I have retreated to a base camp on the opposite corner, where I am pretending to text Sean Lennon and indicating frustration at this unexpected delay.

The New Yorker

Subsequent qualitative content analysis suggested that gaining knowledge and awareness may have led to feeling anxious or depressed during treatment for some, while others indicated frustration and dysphoria related to persistent struggles implementing the content on the available internet platform.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

The board also indicated frustration with the district, which it said had provided members with inaccurate and conflicting information and had failed to meet requested deadlines.

Huffington Post

An internal CIA survey indicates frustration with poor management makes it difficult for the spy agency to retain some of its most talented employees.

Los Angeles Times

Although Bradman and his batsmen made gestures indicating frustration at England's stifling tactics, they remained patient as there was still much time left in the match for them to convert their dominance into a victory.

Wikipedia

In summary, the performance and neural activation in LOSS trials is consistent with gambler's fallacy, and indicates frustration and greater engagement of executive control as evidenced by enhanced activity in the frontal regions.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

He did indicate some frustration with the job, though.

Independent

With rhythmic movement, more than sheer dance, they indicate their frustration, rebelliousness and hope.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indicate frustration" when you want to describe a subtle or indirect expression of frustration, rather than an outright declaration.

Common error

In highly formal or professional writing, consider stronger verbs or more direct phrasing to convey the severity of the frustration if needed. Overuse of "indicate frustration" can sometimes sound passive or understated.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indicate frustration" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun. It describes the act of showing or signaling feelings of annoyance or disappointment. As Ludwig AI points out, it's generally correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "indicate frustration" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe showing signs of annoyance or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While considered neutral in register, it appears more frequently in news and media contexts. When writing, consider if a more subtle or overt expression is needed and if a more direct phrase could be more effective in formal settings. Alternatives such as "show annoyance" or "express discontent" can be used based on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show annoyance

Focuses on the outward display of being bothered or irritated.

betray frustration

Focuses on unintentionally revealing feelings of frustration.

express discontent

Highlights the verbal communication of unhappiness or dissatisfaction.

register dissatisfaction

Emphasizes formally or clearly showing unhappiness.

reveal exasperation

Emphasizes a state of extreme annoyance or impatience.

evidence annoyance

Highlights providing proof or indication of being annoyed.

convey irritation

Focuses on communicating a feeling of annoyance.

reflect discontent

Emphasizes an appearance or indication of unhappiness.

signal displeasure

Highlights the act of making unhappiness known.

manifest impatience

Emphasizes demonstrating a lack of tolerance for delays or opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "indicate frustration" in a sentence?

You can use "indicate frustration" to describe how someone expresses their feelings of annoyance or dissatisfaction, for example: "Her tone of voice seemed to "indicate frustration" when she spoke about the delays in the project."

What are some alternatives to "indicate frustration"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "show annoyance", "express discontent", or "reveal exasperation" to convey similar meanings.

Is it better to "indicate frustration" or "express frustration"?

"Indicate frustration" suggests a more subtle or indirect expression, while "express frustration" implies a more direct or overt communication of those feelings. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone "indicates frustration"?

When someone "indicates frustration", it means they are showing signs of annoyance, disappointment, or impatience, often through subtle cues such as tone of voice, body language, or choice of words.