signals

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "signals" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a communication or indication, either to indicate a warning or to convey a message. For example, "The guards used body language signals to coordinate their movements."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Putting on a Poitras exhibition, says Rothkopf, "signals our commitment and fearlessness in the face of political issues, and that's something that goes back to the 30s" – the Whitney opened in 1931.

The Guardian - Arts

Although Binyamin Netanyahu has been vociferous in addressing the perceived Iranian threat to Israel, during his first term as prime minister in the late 1990s he evidently sent signals that he was interested in dialogue with Tehran.

The Guardian

This goes even further and signals an ideological break with the time of Tony Blair, who was the first architect of academies.

The Guardian

Last month Angela Merkel made the first, cautious signals in the direction of a higher defence budget at the inaugural visit of the new Nato secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg.

The Guardian

Apple Watch release signals firm's transformation into luxury brand.

The Guardian - Tech

And with that, Percy - who's listening to the interview - taps his watch and signals it's time to say goodbye.

The Guardian

Aereo's method is simple: It provides an antenna for each customer, capturing the signals from local broadcasters in New York City (with other cities to be added this year, the company says), and then makes the content available to the customers via Internet streaming.

The Guardian - Opinion

Americans are now realising what it means that we applied to the stealing of signals and the breaking of codes a similar proportion of our resources in relation to the rest of the world.

The Guardian - Tech

He meant by this clear and unambiguous signals from the IRA that it was ceasing to be an active paramilitary force.

The Guardian

For years science fiction has depicted criminals, governments and security forces being able to block signals with radio jammers.

The Guardian - Tech

The WWF/ANU report contends that Australia is well placed to make an orderly and low-cost transition to decarbonisation if the government can send clear and predictable policy and regulatory signals to the market, and resist special pleading from the owners of carbon intensive assets.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "indications", "signs", or "cues" to avoid repetition and enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid assuming a direct cause-and-effect relationship based solely on "signals". Always corroborate with additional data or evidence to support your interpretations.

Linguistic Context

The word "signals" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a means of communication or indication. It can also act as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of "signal". This is supported by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Tech

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "signals" is a versatile term primarily functioning as a noun to indicate means of communication or indication. According to Ludwig, it can also serve as a verb. Its communicative purpose is to convey information, provide guidance, or indicate a state or condition. The term's neutral register makes it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly news and media, tech, and business. To enhance your writing, be mindful of the context to distinguish between literal and figurative uses of "signals", and consider employing synonyms like "indications" or "cues" to add variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

signs

Emphasizes the visual or auditory cues that convey information.

indications

Focuses on the act of pointing out or making something known indirectly.

cues

Highlights subtle prompts or hints that guide behavior or understanding.

messages

Stresses the content being conveyed through communication.

alerts

Implies a warning or notification of potential danger or importance.

warnings

Specifically denotes cautions against potential risks or threats.

hints

Suggests subtle or indirect indications that require interpretation.

clues

Emphasizes pieces of evidence that help solve a problem or mystery.

communications

Broadly refers to the exchange of information between entities.

expressions

Refers to outwardly visible signs or manifestations of an internal state or intention.

FAQs

How can I use "signals" in a sentence?

You can use "signals" to refer to both literal communications, such as "traffic signals", or to figurative indications, as in "economic signals indicate a recession is coming".

What are some synonyms for the word "signals"?

Alternatives to "signals" include "indications", "signs", "cues", and "messages". The best choice depends on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "signals" in writing?

Use "signals" when you want to convey the idea of something communicating a message, either literally or figuratively. It's suitable for a range of contexts, from technical discussions to general news reporting.

What's the difference between "signals" and "warnings"?

"Signals" can encompass a broad range of communications, while "warnings" specifically indicate a potential danger or threat. Therefore, not all "signals" are "warnings", but all "warnings" can be considered as "signals".