indicated that he

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indicated that he" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone who has expressed or shown something, often in a formal or academic context. Example: "The report indicated that he was the primary author of the study."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mr. Holder indicated that he agreed.

The New York Times

He has indicated that he won't.

The New York Times - Sports

Williams indicated that he wasn't altogether sure.

The New Yorker

Television replays indicated that he was right.

The New York Times - Sports

Clegg indicated that he, too, would be happy to join.

The Guardian

He indicated that he wanted to continue breeding.

The New York Times - Sports

He indicated that he had not used illegal drugs since.

The New York Times

Obama indicated that he is considering a range of actions.

The Guardian

Cameron indicated that he had some sympathy for Carter's view.

The Guardian

Sim indicated that he would consider the offer.

The New Yorker

Polls indicated that he was going to be the winner".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indicated that he" when you want to convey that someone has expressed something subtly or indirectly, without making a direct statement. It's useful for reporting on opinions or intentions without asserting them as fact.

Common error

Avoid using "indicated that he" in casual conversations or informal writing. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "said" or "mentioned" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indicated that he" functions as a reporting verb phrase, used to introduce a subordinate clause. It signals that the subject communicated something indirectly or subtly. Ludwig shows examples across diverse contexts where this phrase introduces reported speech or inferred intentions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "indicated that he" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase to report someone's indirect communication, intentions, or state of mind. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely accepted and useful in professional or neutral contexts, but it may sound too formal in informal conversations. The phrase is most commonly found in News & Media, as well as scientific and formal publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggested that he

This alternative implies a less direct expression, focusing on hints or subtle cues rather than a clear statement.

implied that he

Similar to suggested, but often carries a stronger sense of indirectness and unspoken meaning.

stated that he

This implies a more formal and direct declaration of information.

expressed that he

Emphasizes the communication of feelings or thoughts, whether verbally or nonverbally.

mentioned that he

Focuses on the act of bringing something up in conversation, without necessarily emphasizing intent or purpose.

showed that he

Focuses on demonstrating something through actions or evidence, rather than explicit statements.

communicated that he

A broader term for conveying information, which can include both verbal and nonverbal means.

revealed that he

Suggests the uncovering of something previously hidden or unknown.

gave the impression that he

Focuses on the perception created in others, rather than the speaker's direct intent.

let on that he

An informal expression suggesting a subtle or unintentional revelation.

FAQs

How to use "indicated that he" in a sentence?

Use "indicated that he" to show someone expressed something indirectly or subtly. For instance, "The report "indicated that he" was aware of the risks, but proceeded anyway."

What can I say instead of "indicated that he"?

Alternatives to "indicated that he" include "suggested that he", "implied that he", or "mentioned that he". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "indicated that he" formal or informal?

"Indicated that he" leans toward the formal side. While grammatically correct in most contexts, it can sound stilted in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives are often preferred in informal settings.

Which is correct, "indicated that he" or "indicated he"?

"Indicated that he" is grammatically correct and complete. "Indicated he" is less common and can sound awkward. The inclusion of "that" improves the flow and clarity of the sentence.