Translation guide
The English verb "indicate" covers a wide range of meanings, from pointing out and showing to suggesting and signaling. This guide breaks down the most common uses for learners and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
To physically or directly point at something, or to show something clearly.
Literally 'to point'. Used for pointing at objects, directions, or on maps. Also used metaphorically for indicating a person or thing.
He pointed at the map and said it was here.
To show, indicate, or display. More formal than 指す. Used for showing evidence, results, or intentions.
データは増加傾向を示している。
The data indicates an upward trend.
To point out or indicate clearly. A compound of 指す and 示す, emphasizing the act of indicating.
矢印が出口を指し示している。
The arrow indicates the exit.
To suggest that something exists or is true, often based on evidence or signs.
Used for evidence, data, or signs that indicate a fact or condition.
この症状は感染症を示している。
These symptoms indicate an infection.
To express, show, or indicate a feeling, quality, or state. Often used for abstract things.
Literary: to tell a story; figuratively, to indicate or suggest something clearly. Often used in formal writing.
To say something indirectly or without giving full details.
To hint, suggest, or imply. Common in formal or written contexts.
彼は辞任の可能性を示唆した。
He indicated the possibility of resigning.
To hint at, imply, or suggest indirectly. More casual than 示唆する.
彼女は不満をほのめかした。
She indicated her dissatisfaction.
A pattern meaning 'as if to say', indicating an unspoken message through action or expression.
彼は早く帰れと言わんばかりに時計を見た。
He looked at his watch, indicating that I should leave soon.
To display information such as direction, temperature, or quantity on a device.
Used for instruments, meters, or signs that display a value.
温度計は30度を示している。
The thermometer indicates 30 degrees.
Used for needles or hands of a clock, meter, etc., pointing to a value.
時計の針は正午を指している。
The clock's hands indicate noon.
To make known one's intentions or future actions, often formally.
To express, declare, or indicate one's intentions or stance formally.
政府は増税の方針を表明した。
The government indicated its policy of raising taxes.
To show or indicate one's intentions, often through actions or statements.
彼は辞任の意向を示した。
He indicated his intention to resign.
To state or specify something in writing, such as in a form or report.
Used when a document or text indicates something.
報告書は問題点を示している。
The report indicates the problems.
To state or write down in a document. Often used in formal contexts like forms or official papers.
必要事項を記載してください。
Please indicate the necessary information.
指す (sasu) is used for physically pointing or indicating a direction, while 示す (shimesu) is broader and more formal, used for showing evidence, data, or intentions. 指す can also be used for clock hands or needles, but 示す is preferred for abstract indications.
English 'indicate' is often used in formal or indirect speech. In Japanese, directly translating with 示す may sound too stiff in casual conversation. Use more natural expressions like 言う (to say) or 教える (to tell) when appropriate.
希望をお知らせください。
Please indicate your preference.
Natural Japanese uses お知らせください (please inform) rather than a direct translation of 'indicate'.
その標識は駅への道を示しています。
The sign indicates the way to the station.
彼はその決定に不満があることをほのめかした。
He indicated that he was unhappy with the decision.
彼の態度は不満を表している。
His attitude indicates dissatisfaction.
この数字が深刻な状況を物語っている。
These numbers indicate a serious situation.