possible indicator

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "possible indicator" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing something that may suggest or point to a particular conclusion or outcome, often in analytical or research contexts. Example: "The increase in temperature could be a possible indicator of climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Roof's apparent Facebook profile photo carries a possible indicator of his racist worldview.

The Washington Post

The energy proportion index is a possible indicator for the damage detection.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Market specialists often view heavy stock sales by corporate insiders as a possible indicator that share prices are headed lower.

The New York Times

We conclude that future transportation management should consider TOF management as a possible indicator for AVCs.

Applied Geography

Increase in core body temperature of Alzheimer's disease patients as a possible indicator of chronic neuroinflammation: a meta-analysis.

Harvard University

However, they appeared to be working longer hours, a possible indicator that they are taking on other responsibilities such as IT and HR as other teams are squeezed.

The Guardian

The study also noted a drop in the proportion of nonelderly adults who have visited a dentist in the past year, a possible indicator of declining dental insurance.

The New York Times - Health

Investors consider it a bellwether of economic sentiment and a possible indicator of the direction of the stock market.

The New York Times

The season in the Southern Hemisphere has been relatively mild, a possible indicator for what to expect in the United States.

The Washington Post

In this video, Howard Brown, founder of dMass.net, argues that resource efficiency is the best possible indicator of how sustainable a product is.

The Guardian

A possible indicator of the extent of degradation is the organic fraction of solids in the effluent.

Biomass and Bioenergy

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "possible indicator", ensure the context clearly conveys that the indication is not definitive but rather suggestive or potential. Use hedging language to avoid overstating the significance of the indicator.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "possible indicator" as conclusive evidence. Always acknowledge the uncertainty and potential for alternative explanations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "possible indicator" functions as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, serving as an adjective. It specifies that something might be a sign or signal of something else, but without definitive certainty. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

35%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "possible indicator" is a commonly used term across various domains, including science, news, and academia, to denote something that could potentially signify or suggest a particular outcome or condition. Ludwig AI's analysis shows that it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. While it's versatile, it's crucial to acknowledge the uncertainty inherent in its meaning and avoid presenting it as definitive proof. Related phrases such as "potential sign" and "likely signal" can serve as alternatives, depending on the specific context and desired level of certainty. Overall, the usage of this phrase is accurate and effective as long as it is not overstated.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

potential sign

Emphasizes the possibility of something being a sign, differing slightly in focus from indicating.

potential marker

Highlights the function of identifying or distinguishing something, rather than merely indicating.

likely signal

Suggests a probable cue or indication, implying a higher degree of certainty than just 'possible'.

plausible predictor

Focuses on the predictive aspect, implying the ability to forecast future outcomes.

suggestive clue

Highlights the suggestive nature of the indication, implying a more indirect hint.

hint of

This alternative suggests a subtle or indirect indication.

indication of

Simplifies the original phrase by removing the qualifier 'possible', suggesting a more direct indication.

early warning sign

Implies that the indicator is appearing at the beginning of a process.

preliminary indication

Highlights that the indicator is initial and might need further confirmation.

red flag

This alternative suggests a warning sign or something that requires immediate attention.

FAQs

How can I use "possible indicator" in a sentence?

Use "possible indicator" to suggest a potential but not definitive sign of something. For example: "The drop in sales could be a possible indicator of a recession."

What are some alternatives to "possible indicator"?

You can use alternatives like "potential sign", "likely signal", or "suggestive clue" depending on the context.

Is "possible indicator" formal or informal?

"Possible indicator" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it's more commonly found in analytical or research-oriented writing.

What's the difference between "possible indicator" and "definite proof"?

"Possible indicator" suggests a potential sign or clue, while "definite proof" implies conclusive evidence that leaves no room for doubt.