signal Definition
- 1a gesture, action, or sound that is used to convey information or instructions
- 2an indication of a state or condition
Using signal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "signal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The traffic light turned green as a signal for us to proceed.
Example
He gave me a signal to start the presentation.
Example
The stock market's rise is a signal of economic growth.
Example
The teacher's frown was a signal to stop talking.
signal Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for signal
Antonyms for signal
Idioms Using signal
Example
I didn't get the signal that the meeting had been moved to a different room.
Example
She's been sending out signals that she's not happy with her job.
the ratio of useful information to irrelevant or unwanted information in a communication system
Example
The signal to noise ratio in this recording is too low to hear the speaker clearly.
Phrases with signal
Example
He's been giving me mixed signals about his interest in me.
Example
By offering the job to her, the company is sending a signal that they value her skills and experience.
Example
The sudden drop in sales is a clear signal that we need to change our marketing strategy.
Origins of signal
from Old French 'seignal', from medieval Latin 'signale', neuter of 'signalis', from Latin 'signum', meaning 'mark, token'
Summary: signal in Brief
The term 'signal' [ˈsɪɡnəl] refers to a gesture, action, or sound that conveys information or instructions, or an indication of a state or condition. It can be used in various contexts, such as traffic lights, stock markets, and nonverbal communication. Phrases like 'mixed signals' and 'send a signal' denote conflicting messages and intentional communication, respectively. Idioms like 'get the signal' and 'signal to noise ratio' refer to understanding and the ratio of useful to irrelevant information.