indicator
/'indikeitə/
Definition
- Noun:
- A substance that changes color to show the presence of a specific ion or substance: In chemistry, an "indicator" is a compound used to signal, typically through a color change, the completion of a reaction or the presence of a particular condition, such as acidity.
- A device that shows the operating condition of a system: In mechanics or technology, an "indicator" is a gauge, light, or dial that displays information about the state or performance of a machine or system.
- A signal for attracting attention: An "indicator" can be something that serves as a sign or signal to draw notice to a specific thing or situation.
- A number or ratio derived from observed facts that reveals relative changes over time: In statistics, economics, or research, an "indicator" is a measurable value used to represent or track trends, performance, or conditions.
Usage Examples
- Noun (Chemical Substance):
- Litmus paper is a common acid-base indicator.
- The scientist added a few drops of the indicator to the solution.
- Noun (Device):
- The fuel indicator on the dashboard was showing empty.
- Check the temperature indicator to see if the engine is overheating.
- Noun (Signal):
- The sudden drop in sales is a clear indicator of economic trouble.
- Her smile was a good indicator of her approval.
- Noun (Statistical Measure):
- The unemployment rate is a key economic indicator.
- They monitor several health indicators to assess the population's well-being.
Advanced Usage
- Leading indicator: A measurable factor that changes before the economy or a market begins to follow a particular pattern or trend.
- Consumer confidence is often considered a leading indicator of economic health.
- Indicator species: In biology and ecology, a species whose presence, absence, or abundance reflects a specific environmental condition.
- The health of coral reefs is an indicator species for ocean water quality.
Variants and Related Words
- Indicate (verb): To point out, show, or suggest something.
- The data indicates a positive trend.
- Indicative (adjective): Serving as a sign or indication of something.
- His tone was indicative of his frustration.
- Indicator light (noun phrase): A small light on a device or vehicle that shows a specific status.
- The indicator light flashes when the battery is low.
Synonyms
- Gauge: A device for measuring or testing something.
- Signal: A gesture, action, or sound conveying information or an instruction.
- Measure: A standard unit used to express size, amount, or degree.
- Sign: An object, quality, or event whose presence indicates the probable occurrence of something else.
Related Phrases
- Turn indicator: (Also "turn signal") A flashing light on a vehicle showing the direction in which it is about to turn.
- Always use your turn indicator before changing lanes.
- Performance indicator: A measurable value that demonstrates how effectively a company or project is achieving key objectives.
- Customer satisfaction is our most important performance indicator.
Related Idioms
- A sure indicator: Something that is a definite or reliable sign of a particular condition or outcome.
- A sudden silence in the room is a sure indicator that something is wrong.
Noun
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(chemistry) a substance that changes color to indicate the presence of some ion or substance; can be used to indicate the completion of a chemical reaction or (in medicine) to test for a particular reaction
-
a device for showing the operating condition of some system
-
a signal for attracting attention
-
a number or ratio (a value on a scale of measurement) derived from a series of observed facts; can reveal relative changes as a function of time
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