Indicated: Definition and Synonyms
Indicated – Definition and Part of Speech
The word “indicated” primarily functions as the past tense of the verb “to indicate.” It refers to showing or pointing out something indirectly through signs, symbols, or other means. The term can also be used adjectivally in phrases such as “the indicated dose,” where it describes something that has been suggested or pointed out.
Core Synonyms (Table Format)
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| Signified | Implies conveying meaning, often deeper than mere indication. | “Her smile signified her approval.” | Formal/Informal |
| Suggested | Conveys a sense of proposal or hinting at something. | “The results suggested an underlying trend.” | Academic/Business |
| Pointed out | Explicitly noted, bringing attention to something specific. | “He pointed out the mistake in the report.” | Formal/Casual |
| Denoted | Often used for symbols or representations of concepts. | “The flag denoted a call for unity.” | Academic/Formal |
Usage Notes
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Signified: This synonym is often preferred when implying that something conveys more than just a direct indication, suggesting deeper meanings or implications. It’s commonly used in both academic discussions and everyday contexts where the underlying meaning is important.
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Suggested: Best used in scenarios involving hypotheses, recommendations, or subtle hints. In business writing, this term can indicate preliminary findings or proposals without strong assertions. Academically, it’s useful for discussing inferred conclusions based on evidence.
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Pointed out: This term emphasizes directness and clarity, making it ideal when highlighting errors, discrepancies, or important details. It is versatile across various registers but maintains a straightforward tone, suitable for formal reports and casual conversations alike.
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Denoted: Frequently used in contexts involving symbols, signs, or representations, this word suits discussions where abstract concepts need to be related to their concrete manifestations, particularly in academic writing about semiotics or communication studies.
Common Pitfalls
One common pitfall with “indicated” is confusing it with its root verb form “to indicate,” which can lead to tense-related errors. Similarly, synonyms like “suggested” and “implied” may be mistakenly interchanged; while both suggest indirectness, “suggested” often carries a hint of proposal or recommendation, whereas “implied” indicates an inferred meaning.
Final Recap
In summary, while “indicated” is a versatile term used to convey that something has been shown or pointed out indirectly, its synonyms—such as signified, suggested, pointed out, and denoted—offer nuanced differences suitable for various contexts. By understanding these nuances, learners can choose the most appropriate synonym based on their specific needs in writing or conversation.
To enhance your mastery of these terms, try crafting sentences using each synonym in different settings: write a formal email, draft an academic paper, or engage in casual dialogue. Experimenting with these words will improve both your vocabulary and communication skills, allowing you to convey precise meanings effectively across diverse scenarios.