The verb "indicate" means to show, point out, or make something clear. It can be used in several related ways:
- To show or demonstrate that something exists or is true, often by evidence or signs. For example, "Exploratory investigations have indicated large amounts of oil below the sea bed"
- To point to or direct attention to something, usually by gesture or signal. For example, "He indicated a chair. 'Sit down.'" or "The general used a ruler to indicate on the map where the troops would land"
- To be a sign or symptom of something else. For example, "Fever indicates illness" or "His hesitation indicates doubt"
- To express or state something briefly or indirectly. For example, "He indicated that he may resign" or "She indicated her willingness to cooperate"
- In driving (British English), to make a signal showing intention to turn
In summary, "indicate" involves showing, pointing out, or signaling something, either physically or figuratively, often to reveal information, evidence, or intention