indication
n. C / Un. a sign or hint that something exists, is true, or is likely to happen.
n. a sign, symptom, or piece of information that suggests the presence or existence of something. Often used to describe a signal that points toward a specific conclusion or course of action.
The dark clouds are a clear indication of rain.
The doctor noted that the patient's high fever was a strong indication of a serious infection.
While the initial market rally provided a positive indication of investor confidence, analysts warned that long-term stability would depend on more concrete economic data.
From Old French indication, from Latin indicātiō (“a showing, indicating the value of something; valuation”), from indicō (“point out, indicate, show; value”); see indicate; compare French indication, Spanish indicación, Italian indicazione. By surface analysis, indicate + -ion.
Often followed by the preposition 'of' or a 'that' clause. In medical contexts, it can refer to a specific reason to use a particular treatment.