indicative

Everyday

1. (formal) If something is indicative of something else, it shows or suggests it: «A high temperature is indicative of an infection». tree →
2. (grammar) The indicative is the ordinary form of a verb used for facts and questions, like «She runs» or «Did it rain?», as opposed to commands or wishes. tree →

In the lessons

In formal writing, exam questions and science reports it means «a sign of». In grammar and foreign-language lessons (French, Spanish) it names a verb mood. Phrases: «indicative of», «the indicative mood», «present indicative».

Examples

• Dark clouds are often indicative of rain. tree →
• (formal) His smile was indicative of his good mood. tree →
• Yellow leaves can be indicative of a thirsty plant. tree →
• (formal) The results are indicative of a pattern. tree →
• In French we learned the present indicative. tree →
• «I walk» is in the indicative mood. tree →
• The indicative is used to state facts. tree →
• Missing homework is indicative of a busy week, the teacher joked. tree →
• In later times she appears blindfolded, and stands on a ball or wheel, indicative of the fickleness and ever-revolving {148} changes of fortune. tree →

Note

Say «in-DIK-uh-tiv». Usually followed by «of». Formal word; in speech use «a sign of». In the UK, a car's «indicator» flashes to show which way it will turn.