indicator
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indicator
A feature or sign that points to a particular condition, development, or quality. It is often used to make complex issues measurable or visible.
Das Bruttoinlandsprodukt ist ein wichtiger Indikator für die wirtschaftliche Leistung eines Landes.
Gross domestic product is an important indicator of a country's economic performance.
indicator
A chemical substance that shows the presence or concentration of another substance through a visible change, usually a color change. A well-known example is pH indicators.
Wir haben Lackmuspapier als Indikator verwendet, um zu prüfen, ob die Lösung sauer oder basisch ist.
We used litmus paper as an indicator to check whether the solution was acidic or basic.
The word 'Indikator' comes from Latin and means 'pointer' or 'indicator.' The ending '-ator' often refers to a person or thing that performs an action — here, something that indicates something or points to it.
Ein plötzlicher Abfall der Verkaufszahlen war der erste Indikator für die Krise.
A sudden drop in sales figures was the first indicator of the crisis.
'Indikator' is a word used mainly in formal, scientific, or technical contexts. It often sounds more formal and precise than colloquial alternatives.
In der Studie werden verschiedene soziale Indikatoren zur Messung der Lebensqualität herangezogen.
The study uses various social indicators to measure quality of life.
In its general meaning, 'Indikator' is almost always used with the preposition 'für' and the accusative to say what it points to.
Die hohe Zahl an Bewerbungen ist ein guter Indikator für die Attraktivität des Unternehmens.
The high number of applications is a good indicator of the company's attractiveness.
When 'Indikator' appears in connection with words like 'Lösung' (solution), 'Farbe' (color), 'sauer' (acidic), 'basisch' (basic/alkaline), or 'Labor' (laboratory), it always refers to the chemical substance.
Der Indikator färbte die Flüssigkeit blau, was auf eine basische Lösung hindeutete.
The indicator turned the liquid blue, which indicated a basic solution.
signal
Both words can point to a development or state. Indikator usually provides ongoing or measurable evidence, while Signal highlights the message recognized from it, often one that is relevant to action. Use “Indikator” for regular monitoring and “Signal” for the warning that results from it.
Die monatliche Zahl der Aufträge ist ein wichtiger Indikator für die wirtschaftliche Entwicklung.
The monthly number of orders is an important indicator of economic development.
Der anhaltende Rückgang der Aufträge ist ein Signal, die Planung zu ändern.
The continued decline in orders is a signal that we need to change our plans.
