serve as a signal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "serve as a signal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that indicates or communicates a particular message or alert. Example: "The sudden drop in temperature can serve as a signal that a storm is approaching."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Such a "noisy withdrawal" could serve as a signal to others that the lawyer had found something wrong.

The New York Times

This process may serve as a signal event and/or as a deposition of NO to S nitrosoglutathione (GSNO).

Electrochimica Acta

The resulting wage divergence should serve as a signal to the labour force that more professionals are needed.

The Economist

Lys48-linked polyubiquitin chains serve as a signal for protein degradation by 26S proteasomes through its Ile44 hydrophobic patches interactions.

Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications

A yawn, then, may serve as a signal for our bodies to perk up, a way of making sure we stay alert.

The New Yorker

This also would serve as a signal to American automakers and American drivers that the era of cheap gasoline is not going to last.

The New York Times

De novo methylation of foreign DNA molecules has been shown to occur in several systems10 12, and may serve as a signal to arrest gene expression.

Nature

The alien invasion has forced humanity underground and off the airwaves, as the smallest sound can serve as a signal for the murderous monsters.

The Washington Post

If a drummer is present, as is usual in formal concert, his first beats serve as a signal to the listener that the alapa is concluded.

Britannica

Apart from the direct funding of these projects, government grants may serve as a signal for good investments for private investors.

Research Policy

And because they serve as a signal that a big reward might be close by, it is advantageous that novel stimuli command our attention.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "serve as a signal", ensure the context clearly defines what the signal is indicating. Specificity enhances clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "serve as a signal" multiple times within a short span when describing similar indicators. Vary your language by using synonyms like "indicate", "suggest", or "point to" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "serve as a signal" functions primarily as a predicative expression, linking a subject to a characteristic or role it fulfills. It indicates that something acts as an indicator or sign for something else. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically sound and well-supported by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

46%

News & Media

44%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "serve as a signal" is a versatile and grammatically sound expression used to convey that something acts as an indicator or sign. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found across diverse contexts, especially in scientific and news media, indicating its wide applicability. When using the phrase, it's essential to ensure clarity about what the signal represents and to avoid overuse in close proximity by using alternatives like "act as an indicator" or "provide an indication". By understanding its nuances and adhering to best practices, writers can effectively communicate the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

act as an indicator

This alternative emphasizes the function of pointing something out, similar to 'signal'.

function as a sign

This alternative highlights the symbolic nature of the signal, suggesting it represents something else.

provide an indication

This alternative focuses on the act of giving a hint or clue.

offer a cue

This alternative suggests a prompt or reminder, often subtle.

give a warning

This alternative is more specific, suggesting the signal alerts to potential danger.

work as a trigger

This option presents the idea of initiating a subsequent action or response.

constitute a prompt

This variation presents an action that encourages someone towards a specific behavior

be a harbinger of

This alternative implies predicting a future event, suggesting that the signal announces what is to come.

be symptomatic of

Suggests the signal is a symptom or sign of an underlying issue or condition.

foreshadow

Implies the signal is a hint of something that will occur in the future, often used in narrative contexts.

FAQs

How can I use "serve as a signal" in a sentence?

You can use "serve as a signal" to indicate that something provides information or a warning about something else. For example, "The increase in inflation may serve as a signal of an upcoming recession."

What are some alternatives to "serve as a signal"?

Some alternatives to "serve as a signal" include "act as an indicator", "function as a sign", or "provide an indication" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "serve as a signal" or "act as a signal"?

Both "serve as a signal" and "act as a signal" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. The choice often depends on stylistic preference or the specific nuance you want to emphasize. "Serve" may imply a more inherent or intended function, while "act" might suggest a more situational or temporary role.

Can "serve as a signal" imply a positive or negative indication?

"Serve as a signal" can be used for both positive and negative indications, depending on the context. For instance, it can indicate a positive trend in the market or "give a warning" of potential danger.