Translation guide
The English word 'indicator' covers a wide range of meanings, from physical devices and gauges to abstract signs and signals. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese equivalents by meaning, focusing on common, natural expressions for English-speaking learners.
A physical gauge, meter, light, or display that indicates a value or condition.
Something that serves as a sign, clue, or evidence of a situation, often used in economics, health, or analysis.
An index, benchmark, or key indicator used in statistics, economics, or performance measurement.
A substance used in tests to reveal the presence or level of something, like litmus paper or pH indicators.
Standard term for a chemical indicator, such as phenolphthalein or litmus.
The flashing light on a car or motorcycle that signals a turn or lane change.
Someone or something that directs attention or gives information, like a pointer or guide.
A person who gives directions or instructions; an indicator in the sense of a guide.
指標 (shihyō) is a formal, often numerical indicator like an economic index. 兆候 (chōkō) implies a sign or symptom, often of something developing. 目安 (meyasu) is a rough standard or guideline for practical decisions.
The unemployment rate is an indicator of the economy.
Common loanword for 'indicator' in technical or mechanical contexts, like a car's turn signal or a status light.
The car's indicator is flashing.
The speedometer's needle went off the scale.
GDP is an important indicator of the economy.
A sign or symptom, often of something negative or a change, like an early indicator of disease or trouble.
This symptom might be an indicator of illness.
A rough standard, guideline, or yardstick; a practical indicator for making judgments.
The indicator for passing is 70 points.
Metaphorical use, like 'barometer' in English, for something that indicates changes in a situation.
Stock prices are a barometer of the economy.
This indicator turns red in acid.
Also used in chemistry contexts, especially in lab settings.
Use a pH indicator to check the neutralization point.
Formal term for a vehicle's turn signal. Often shortened in casual speech.
Please use your indicator before turning right.
Common casual term for turn signal, widely used in everyday conversation.
Changing lanes without using your indicator is dangerous.
He worked as an indicator for directions.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'something that points out', used when no specific noun fits.
This arrow is an indicator of the exit.
咳は風邪の兆候だ。
A cough is an indicator of a cold.
The daily indicator is 2000 calories.
The direct katakana インディケーター is rarely used. Stick to インジケーター or the specific Japanese terms above.