indicative

[in-dik-uh-tiv]

adjective

1. showing, signifying, or pointing out; expressive or suggestive (usually followed byof ).

   behavior indicative of mental disorder.

2. Grammar.,  noting or pertaining to the mood of the verb used for ordinary objective statements, questions, etc., as the verb plays in John plays football.

noun

Grammar.

1. the indicative mood.

2. a verb in the indicative.

indicative

/ ɪnˈdɪkətɪv /

adjective

1. serving as a sign; suggestive

   indicative of trouble ahead

2. grammar denoting a mood of verbs used chiefly to make statements Compare subjunctive

noun

1. grammar

   1. the indicative mood

   2. a verb in the indicative mood

Other Word Forms

• indicatively adverb
• unindicative adjective
• unindicatively adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of indicative¹

From the Late Latin word indicātīvus, dating back to 1520–30. See indicate, -ive

Example Sentences

The fact that investors are looking closely at these elements is perhaps indicative of how the attitude on Wall Street has shifted from euphoria to vigilance.

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“The overall weakness in the crypto space is indicative of a softening retail bid, which portends lighter buying forces for U.S. stocks in the short-run, especially the higher beta areas,” Torres said.

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Both Stone and Buchholz acknowledged the benefits of a strong, supportive board, and that support is indicative that something has been working.

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The impact, however, is likely “temporary and not indicative of underlying demand,” analysts at BofA Securities said in a recent note.

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The index measures the sentiment of home builders, with readings less than 50 indicative of a dour outlook for the single-family housing market in the next six months.

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Related Words

• emblematic 
• ominous 
• suggestive 
• symbolic 
• symptomatic