indicating otherwise

USAGE SUMMARY

"indicating otherwise" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to suggest that the opposite is true of a situation or opinion. For example: The sign said 'no swimming', but the lifeguard's wave seemed to be indicating otherwise.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

"We've not received any information indicating otherwise".

The New York Times

Despite some evidence indicating otherwise, C.E.O.s are people, too.

The New Yorker

The opinion added: "Since the legislature has enacted no restraining provision of law indicating otherwise, the constitution is controlling.

The New York Times

When I subsequently uncovered documents indicating otherwise, Peter Paul said, "I don't recall anything of that nature".

The New Yorker

The census data indicating otherwise was "so surprising to us," said Maria Su, who heads DCYF.

The New York Times

So for me the most plausible explanation, without having any data indicating otherwise, is that they've now come to consider us as safe in these areas".

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Statistics indicate otherwise.

The New York Times - Sports

The waiting list indicates otherwise.

The New York Times

Their V.P.S. scores indicated otherwise.

The New York Times - Sports

His exit today indicated otherwise.

The New York Times - Sports

His rapid improvement indicates otherwise.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indicating otherwise" to subtly introduce doubt or contradiction to a preceding statement or assumption. It's most effective when the contradiction isn't immediately obvious or requires further examination.

Common error

Avoid using "indicating otherwise" when a direct contradiction is more appropriate. Overusing this phrase can make your writing sound hesitant or unclear when certainty is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indicating otherwise" functions as a verbal phrase that often modifies a preceding statement or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it introduces a sense of contrast or alternative possibility. It suggests that there is evidence or reason to believe that the opposite may be true.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "indicating otherwise" is a versatile verbal phrase used to introduce doubt or suggest a different perspective. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in written English. It's prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts. While grammatically sound and frequently used, it should be employed judiciously, ensuring that it subtly challenges preceding statements, and is not used when direct contradictions are more appropriate. Alternatives such as "suggesting the contrary" or "evidence to the contrary" can offer similar nuanced expressions. The phrase's neutral register makes it suitable for various communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggesting the contrary

This alternative focuses on the act of suggesting a different or opposite viewpoint.

evidence to the contrary

This phrase emphasizes the existence of evidence that contradicts a previous statement.

implying the opposite

This alternative highlights the indirect communication of an opposing idea.

pointing to the opposite conclusion

This phrase indicates a direction toward a different or reverse outcome.

suggesting a different interpretation

This highlights that an alternate way of seeing or understanding something exists.

contrary to what was stated

This directly opposes a previously mentioned declaration.

demonstrating the reverse

This implies active proof or showcasing of an opposing condition.

actions suggest otherwise

Focuses on actions as the indicator of something else

facts suggest otherwise

This option focuses on factual evidence indicating something else.

data suggest otherwise

This emphasizes the role of data in revealing a conflicting perspective.

FAQs

How can I use "indicating otherwise" in a sentence?

You can use "indicating otherwise" to suggest that the opposite of what was previously stated might be true. For example, "The forecast predicted sunshine, but the dark clouds were "indicating otherwise"".

What does "indicating otherwise" mean?

The phrase "indicating otherwise" means that there are signs, evidence, or suggestions that point to a different conclusion than what has been said or believed.

What are some alternatives to "indicating otherwise"?

Some alternatives to "indicating otherwise" include "suggesting the contrary", "evidence to the contrary", or "implying the opposite". Each carries a slightly different nuance.

When is it appropriate to use "indicating otherwise"?

It is appropriate to use "indicating otherwise" when you want to gently introduce conflicting information or suggest a different interpretation without directly refuting the initial statement. Use it when the evidence is suggestive but not conclusive.