provide an indication

USAGE SUMMARY

"provide an indication" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You would use it when you want to describe something that gives a hint or clue about a particular situation. For example, you might say, "The temperature change provides an indication of an approaching storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Wire deflection might provide an indication of fracture site deformation on weight bearing, indicating progress towards union.

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

These findings provide an indication of the diagnostic potential of DJ-1 isoforms in whole blood.

Nature

The resulting material is sieved to provide an indication of mass fraction at various fibre lengths.

Composites Part B: Engineering

But they could provide an indication this week of where policy is headed.

The New York Times

Capital ratios provide an indication of a financial institution's ability to withstand financial shocks.

The New York Times

Such measures of regulatory capital provide an indication of an institution's ability to bear financial shocks.

The New York Times

Thus the margin debt levels now may provide an indication of popular enthusiasm for investments.

The New York Times

Therefore, evaluating the electrical properties of cell membrane should provide an indication on membrane integrity.

Sensors and Actuators A: Physical

Theme frequencies are reported to provide an indication of participants' informational priorities.

Landscape and Urban Planning

It has been destroyed in order to provide an indication of where the rest of an orchard stands.

The New Yorker

The steps he takes with Merrill's list of employees may provide an indication of what other banks can expect.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provide an indication", ensure that the indication is clear and directly related to the subject being discussed. Avoid vague or ambiguous indications that could lead to misinterpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "provide an indication" when the evidence is conclusive. This phrase is best suited for situations where the information offers a hint or suggestion, not definitive proof. For instance, instead of saying 'The data provide an indication that the drug is effective' when the results are statistically significant, opt for 'The data demonstrate that the drug is effective'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provide an indication" functions as a verb phrase where "provide" is the verb and "an indication" is the noun phrase acting as the direct object. It suggests the action of supplying a sign or clue. Ludwig's examples showcase its usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

24%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "provide an indication" is a versatile phrase used to suggest that something offers a clue or hint without being definitive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its usage spans various contexts from scientific research and news reporting to business communication. While generally neutral in tone, leaning towards formal, it's important to avoid overstating the strength of the indication. Alternatives like "give a hint" or "suggest a possibility" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Given its frequency and broad applicability, mastering the use of "provide an indication" can enhance clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

give a hint

This alternative uses more informal language and suggests a subtle clue.

offer a clue

Similar to "give a hint", but implies something more specific and helpful for solving a problem.

suggest a possibility

Focuses on presenting something as a potential but not certain outcome.

point to a conclusion

This phrase emphasizes the direction the evidence is leading.

furnish evidence of

A more formal alternative, emphasizing proof or support.

offer a glimpse of

Conveys a brief or incomplete view or understanding.

intimate a sign

Implies subtly communicating something indirectly.

signal an expectation

This implies a clear communication, often in anticipation of an event.

lend credence to

This phrase strengthens the believability of something.

manifest a symptom

This suggests that the topic has some symptoms of a disease.

FAQs

How can I use "provide an indication" in a sentence?

Use "provide an indication" when you want to suggest that something offers a hint or clue, but is not necessarily definitive proof. For example: 'The increase in sales may "give an indication" of a recovering economy'.

What are some alternatives to "provide an indication"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "give a hint", "suggest a possibility", or "offer a clue" instead of "provide an indication".

Is it better to say "provide an indication" or "give an indication"?

Both "provide an indication" and "give an indication" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice often depends on personal preference, although "provide" may sound slightly more formal than "give".

What does it mean when something "provides an indication"?

When something "provides an indication", it means that it offers a sign, hint, or clue about a particular situation or outcome, helping to suggest or imply something without necessarily proving it.