ENGLISH
REFERENCE

signaled

v.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪɡnəɫd// sig·naled

v. to give a sign or signal to show what you are thinking or what you plan to do. You use this when someone makes a movement or sound to send a message.

v. to indicate or communicate a message, intention, or warning through a gesture, action, or sound. Often used to introduce a following clause or to describe a shift in a situation.


SIMPLE

The driver signaled before turning the corner.

CONTEXTUAL

The central bank signaled that interest rates would likely remain stable for the rest of the year.

COMPLEX

By refusing to sign the new trade agreement, the prime minister signaled a significant shift in the country's foreign policy and a move toward economic isolationism.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb can be transitive, taking a direct object or a 'that' clause, or intransitive when the action of signaling is the focus.

Pitfall

He signaled to me for follow him.He signaled to me to follow him.When signaling someone to perform an action, use the infinitive 'to follow' rather than 'for' plus the base form.

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