they indicate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they indicate" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that suggests or points to a particular conclusion or fact. Example: "The results of the survey are clear; they indicate a strong preference for remote work among employees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They indicate the pecking order.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I think, though, they indicate something else.

Independent

In fact, they indicate the opposite.

The Guardian - Opinion

They indicate, he said, that terrific densities had been produced.

The New York Times

Rather they indicate the conflict most parents feel.

The New York Times

They indicate the biter was unpalatable to birds.

The New York Times - Books

To some, they indicate a commendable degree of self-awareness.

The New York Times - Magazine

Together they indicate that it intends to leave nothing behind.

The New York Times - Arts

More darkly, they indicate a smear campaign against Liverpool supporters.

The Guardian - Sport

They indicate he may not be reaching far enough.

The New York Times

Economists hope they indicate that consumer spending is gaining strength.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they indicate", ensure the subject ('they') is clearly defined and the connection between the subject and the indication is logical and evident to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "they indicate" when the pronoun 'they' is ambiguous or unclear. Always ensure the reader knows precisely what 'they' refers to in order to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they indicate" functions as a declarative statement, presenting information that suggests or points towards a particular conclusion. It is used to convey an interpretation or implication based on available data or evidence, as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

39%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they indicate" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to suggest or point towards a specific conclusion based on available information. Predominantly found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its neutral register makes it suitable for professional and academic writing. When employing this phrase, ensure that the pronoun 'they' has a clear and unambiguous reference to avoid confusion. Alternatives include "they suggest" or "they point to", which can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they suggest

Emphasizes a less direct implication compared to "indicate".

they point to

Highlights the direction or focus towards a specific conclusion.

they demonstrate

Stresses a clear and convincing display of evidence.

they reveal

Implies uncovering something previously hidden or unknown.

they signify

Focuses on the meaning or symbolic representation of something.

they imply

Suggests something indirectly, leaving room for interpretation.

they are evidence of

Highlights the role as proof or support for a claim.

they lead to believe

Indicates a process of persuasion or inference.

they mark

Emphasizes the act of designating or distinguishing something.

they are a sign of

Highlights its function as a recognizable symbol or omen.

FAQs

How can I use "they indicate" in a sentence?

Use "they indicate" to show that something suggests a particular fact or conclusion. For example, "The test results "they indicate" a positive outcome".

What are some alternatives to "they indicate"?

You can use alternatives such as "they suggest", "they point to", or "they demonstrate" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "they indicate" or "they suggest"?

"They indicate" implies a more direct or clear sign, while "they suggest" implies a less direct or more tentative sign. The best choice depends on the strength of the evidence and the message you want to convey.

What's the difference between "they indicate" and "they prove"?

"They indicate" implies evidence that points towards something, while "they prove" means there is conclusive evidence establishing something as fact. "They prove" is a stronger statement.