indicate the contrary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indicate the contrary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to express that something suggests or points to an opposing idea or fact. Example: "The evidence presented in the report does not indicate the contrary; it supports the initial hypothesis."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The records affirmatively indicate the contrary.

Cornell University

Its aim is to show that Sitwell was a great poet, but the samples of her work it offers clearly indicate the contrary..

The Guardian - Books

Indeed, the recent Rule 42(b) cases in the Southern District of New York referred to by the Court indicate the contrary.

Cornell University

I agree with what I understand to be the holding of the Court that cases which may indicate the contrary are overruled.

Cornell University

The contracts contain no stipulation from which it can be fairly inferred that the parties intended the time of performance to be even material; indeed, they strongly indicate the contrary.

Harvard University

On the other hand, high rates of abstention or differential rates of abstention by different social classes are not necessarily signs of satisfaction with governmental processes and policies and in fact may indicate the contrary.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Although this career ladder has long been considered the norm, recent research indicates the contrary.

Cornell University

But court records and interviews with more than a dozen former co-workers throughout Flanagan's career indicated the contrary.

The Washington Post

He told the Guardian that, with nothing indicating the contrary, he had believed Werritty was an aide.

The Guardian

Despite appearances, and articles indicating the contrary, the mushrooms in New York City seem to be doing just fine, suggesting that the trees with which they are mycorrhizal are, also.

The New York Times

Rather, the Court clearly indicates the contrary in acknowledging that the interests which trigger due process condemnation " 'cannot be defined with precision.' " Ante, at 822 (quoting In re Murchison, supra, at 136).

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "indicate the contrary", ensure that the subject performing the action is clearly defined. For example, specify which data, study, or observation is suggesting the opposite of what is expected.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a lack of evidence automatically "indicates the contrary". The absence of proof is not necessarily proof of absence; further investigation may be required to establish a definitive contradiction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indicate the contrary" functions as a connector, signaling that subsequent information or evidence presents an opposing viewpoint. This is often used to introduce a contrasting argument or finding. As Ludwig AI suggests, this phrase is considered correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

44%

Academia

31%

News & Media

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "indicate the contrary" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that signals an opposing idea or fact. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability in written English. Predominantly found in academic, scientific, and news-related contexts, it serves to introduce contradictions or alternative perspectives. While alternatives such as ""suggest the opposite"" or "point to the contrary" offer nuanced variations, "indicate the contrary" remains a reliable choice for formal communication. Be mindful to avoid misinterpreting the absence of evidence as definitive proof of the contrary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggest the opposite

Focuses on the act of suggesting an opposing idea, rather than directly indicating a contradiction.

point to the contrary

Emphasizes directionality, implying that something guides attention toward an opposing viewpoint.

show the opposite

Highlights the demonstration of an opposing viewpoint, implying a clearer display of contradiction.

reveal the opposite

Emphasizes the unveiling or discovery of something contrary to what was expected.

demonstrate the opposite

Focuses on actively proving or showing that something is not true.

prove the contrary

Implies a higher level of certainty, suggesting that something has been definitively shown to be false.

contradict

A more direct and concise term that expresses a direct opposition.

negate

Implies a nullification or denial of a statement or idea.

disprove

Focuses on refuting or demonstrating the falsity of something.

invalidate

Indicates that something has been shown to be without legal or factual basis.

FAQs

How can I use "indicate the contrary" in a sentence?

You can use "indicate the contrary" to show that something suggests an opposite conclusion to what was previously stated or believed. Example: "Despite initial reports, the new data seems to "suggest the opposite"."

What's a more concise alternative to "indicate the contrary"?

A more concise alternative to "indicate the contrary" is to simply use the verb "contradict". For example: "The evidence presented directly "contradicts" the earlier findings."

How does "indicate the contrary" differ from "prove the contrary"?

"Indicate the contrary" suggests a direction or a leaning towards an opposing viewpoint, while "prove the contrary" implies a definitive demonstration that something is false or incorrect. The former is less conclusive than the latter.

When is it appropriate to use "indicate the contrary" in formal writing?

It is appropriate to use "indicate the contrary" in formal writing when you want to present evidence or observations that suggest an opposing conclusion, but you don't necessarily have conclusive proof. It's often used in academic or scientific contexts when discussing research findings.