is an indicator of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is an indicator of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express that something serves as a sign or signal of a particular condition or situation. Example: "The increase in temperature is an indicator of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It is an indicator of geopolitical risk.

The Economist

That substance is an indicator of drought.

The New York Times - Science

But neither is an indicator of quality.

The New York Times - Food

A lower spread is an indicator of loosening credit.

The New York Times

Reduced FA is an indicator of inflammation.

European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology

"They have graffiti, which is an indicator of gang activity.

The New York Times

Head circumference is an indicator of brain development.

The Guardian

(In olive oil, free acidity is an indicator of decomposition).

The New Yorker

Demand for permits is an indicator of home-building activity.

The New York Times

In western Kenya, that is an indicator of poverty.

The Economist

By contrast, organ donation is an indicator of altruism.

Transplantation Proceedings

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is an indicator of", ensure that the relationship between the indicator and what it signifies is clear and well-supported by evidence. Avoid vague or unsubstantiated claims.

Common error

Avoid presenting an indicator as a definitive proof. An indicator suggests a relationship but doesn't guarantee it. Use qualifying language to acknowledge potential exceptions or alternative explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is an indicator of" functions as a linking expression that connects a specific observation or measurement to a broader underlying condition or characteristic. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's a usable phrase to suggest a sign or signal of a particular condition or situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

54%

News & Media

44%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is an indicator of" is a versatile expression used to suggest a relationship between a specific sign, measurement, or observation and a broader condition or characteristic. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English. While the phrase is commonly used in scientific and news contexts, it's important to avoid overstating the significance of the relationship and to acknowledge potential exceptions. Alternatives like ""is a sign of"" or ""suggests"" can provide nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a sign of

This phrase directly implies that something serves as a noticeable signal or evidence of something else.

is evidence of

This suggests a more concrete and provable relationship, implying that something proves the existence of something else.

indicates the presence of

This longer phrase specifies that something reveals the existence or availability of something else.

suggests

This alternative implies a less direct relationship, indicating a possibility rather than a certainty.

is a measure of

This suggests that something can be used to quantify or assess a particular characteristic or condition.

points to

This option indicates direction and focus, suggesting that something directs attention towards a specific conclusion.

signals

This conveys the idea that something sends out a message or warning about a specific situation.

reflects

This alternative means to show or represent something, often mirroring an underlying condition or quality.

demonstrates

This option implies that something clearly shows or proves a particular fact or quality.

correlates with

This alternative implies a statistical relationship between two things, suggesting that they occur together.

FAQs

What does it mean when something "is an indicator of" something else?

When something "is an indicator of" something else, it means that it serves as a sign, signal, or measure of that other thing. It suggests a relationship, though not necessarily a definitive proof.

How can I use "is an indicator of" in a sentence?

You can use "is an indicator of" to connect a specific sign or measure to a broader condition or trend. For example, "High fever is an indicator of infection".

What are some alternatives to "is an indicator of"?

Alternatives include "is a sign of", "suggests", "points to", or "reflects". The best choice depends on the specific context and the strength of the relationship you want to convey.

Is there a difference between saying "is an indicator of" and "is evidence of"?

"Is an indicator of" suggests a potential relationship, while "is evidence of" implies a stronger, more provable link. An indicator provides a clue, while evidence offers more substantial support.