What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
signum
Example
The signum for danger is a red triangle with an exclamation point. [signum: noun]
Example
He made a signum with his hand to indicate that it was time to leave. [signum: singular accusative]
indication
Example
The dark clouds were an indication of an approaching storm. [indication: noun]
Example
Her fever was an indication that she might be getting sick. [indication: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indication is more commonly used than signum in everyday language. Indication is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while signum is less common and typically used in more specialized fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between signum and indication?
While signum is associated with a more formal or technical tone, indication can be used in both formal and informal contexts.