indica
in-DI-ka
Quick Reference
📝 In Action
La flecha roja indica la salida.
A1The red arrow indicates the exit.
El doctor indica que debes descansar dos días.
A2The doctor suggests (or indicates) that you should rest for two days.
Si el mapa indica un desvío, síguelo.
B1If the map shows a detour, follow it.
¡Indica la dirección con tu mano, por favor!
A2Indicate the direction with your hand, please! (Using the 'tú' command form)
💡 Grammar Points
The 'c' to 'qu' Spelling Change
Even though 'indicar' is a regular verb, whenever the letter 'c' comes before 'e' (like in the past tense 'yo' form or the special forms used for wishes), it changes to 'qu' (indiqué, indique) to keep the hard 'k' sound.
Using 'indica' for Formal Advice
You often hear 'indica' used when talking about instructions or advice from an authority (a doctor, a sign, a manual). It means 'it requires' or 'it recommends.'
❌ Common Pitfalls
Forgetting the Accent on the Past Tense
Mistake: "Él indica ayer."
Correction: Él indicó ayer. (Always remember the accent mark on the 'ó' in the past tense 'él/ella/usted' form.)
⭐ Usage Tips
Quick Use
Think of 'indica' as the Spanish equivalent of 'It says' or 'It shows' when referring to data, maps, or signs.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: indica
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence correctly uses 'indica' to mean 'shows' or 'points out'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between 'indica' and 'indicar'?
'Indicar' is the base form of the verb, meaning 'to indicate' or 'to point out.' 'Indica' is the form you use when talking about what 'he,' 'she,' 'it,' or 'you (formal)' is doing right now, like 'The sign indicates the direction.'
Can I use 'indica' as a command?
Yes! 'Indica' is the informal command form ('tú') for telling someone to point something out or give instructions. For example, '¡Indica tu nombre aquí!' (Indicate your name here!).