is pointing to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is pointing to" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe a physical motion, a metaphor, or a direction of focus or energy. For example: "The arrow is pointing to the north."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Home dressing room Paul Lambert is pointing to a whiteboard.

Independent

But now new neuroscience is pointing to another likely cause.

The New York Times

He is pointing to the back of his neck.

The Guardian - Sport

The easy part is pointing to the Giants' turnover problems.

The New York Times - Sports

Economic data is pointing to a modest but steady recovery.

The Guardian - Business

The nose of the aircraft is pointing to the middle of the Paranoa lake.

Independent

Everything is pointing to a faster pace of growth for Germany in the coming months.

The Guardian - Business

And that barometer is pointing to some worrying developments," he added.

The Guardian - Sport

Sen. Obama is pointing to his upbringing in Hawaii and Indonesia.

The New York Times

Almost nobody thinks that last week's bond market action is pointing to a slowdown.

The New York Times

Instead, his administration is pointing to investments that the economic recovery act will make in communities.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is pointing to", ensure the subject clearly indicates what is being referenced or directed towards. For instance, "The evidence is pointing to a different conclusion" clarifies the evidence's direction.

Common error

Avoid using "is pointing to" with vague or unclear subjects. Instead of saying "Things are pointing to a problem", specify the subject: "The recent sales figures are pointing to a problem".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is pointing to" functions as a verb phrase indicating direction, implication, or suggestion. As Ludwig AI suggests, it can describe a physical motion, a metaphor, or a direction of focus or energy. Examples in Ludwig show its versatility in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is pointing to" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that indicates direction, suggestion, or implication. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness for various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, scientific writing, and general content, it maintains a neutral register. For clarity, ensure the subject is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "indicates", "suggests", and "implies" can be used based on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indicates

This alternative is more concise and direct, lacking the continuous aspect of the original phrase.

suggests

This alternative emphasizes implication and less direct evidence.

implies

This alternative highlights a logical consequence or conclusion drawn from the subject.

alludes to

This alternative conveys an indirect reference or subtle mention.

hints at

This alternative suggests a subtle or indirect indication, often implying something not explicitly stated.

is indicative of

This alternative uses a more formal and descriptive structure.

demonstrates

This alternative emphasizes a clear and visible display or proof of something.

highlights

This alternative emphasizes the act of bringing attention to something important or noteworthy.

foreshadows

This alternative implies a prediction or warning about a future event.

signals

This alternative suggests that something is acting as a clear sign of something else.

FAQs

How can I use "is pointing to" in a sentence?

The phrase "is pointing to" can be used to indicate direction, suggestion, or implication. For example, "The arrow "is pointing to" the north" or "The evidence "is pointing to" a different conclusion".

What are some alternatives to "is pointing to"?

You can use alternatives like "indicates", "suggests", or "implies" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "is pointing at" instead of "is pointing to"?

While "is pointing at" is also correct, it often implies a more direct and physical action, whereas "is pointing to" can be more abstract, suggesting a trend or implication. Therefore "is pointing to" might be more suitable.

What does "is pointing to" mean in the context of data analysis?

In data analysis, "is pointing to" suggests that the data is indicating or implying a particular trend, outcome, or conclusion. For example, "The data "is pointing to" an increase in customer satisfaction".