indicative

[ in-dik-uh-tiv ]

adjective

1. showing, signifying, or pointing out; expressive or suggestive (usually followed by of ):

   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. Compare imperative ( def 3 ), subjunctive ( def 1 ).

noun

, Grammar.

1. the indicative mood.
2. a verb in the indicative.

indicative

/ ɪnˈdɪkətɪv /

adjective

1. usually postpositivefoll byof 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

Derived Forms

• inˈdicatively, adverb

Other Words From

• in·dica·tive·ly adverb
• unin·dica·tive adjective
• unin·dica·tive·ly 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 BBC's investigation suggests the findings from London might be indicative of wider problems across the country.

From BBC

It will be the first time the women’s basketball team plays their season opener on international soil, indicative of just how much the sport has boomed.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, he believed the issues were indicative of a "broken system" - rather than a "broken company".

From BBC

He fought the idea that his game wouldn’t translate to the pros, that the early-season struggles weren’t going to be indicative of who he could become.

From Los Angeles Times

Netball Australia, whose team won the first Commonwealth gold in 1998 and are reigning champions, said the decision was indicative of netball's "depth and strength".

From BBC

Related Words

• emblematic
• ominous
• suggestive
• symbolic
• symptomatic