Inklingo

How to Say "indicating" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “indicating” is “apuntando” — use 'apuntando' when the action is literally pointing at something or suggesting a direction, often with a physical gesture.

English → Spanish

apuntando

ah-poon-TAHN-dohapunˈtando

verbA2general
Use 'apuntando' when the action is literally pointing at something or suggesting a direction, often with a physical gesture.
A hand with one finger extended, pointing towards a bright red apple on a table.

Examples

El niño está apuntando a las estrellas con su dedo.

The boy is pointing at the stars with his finger.

El arquero se quedó quieto, apuntando al centro de la diana.

The archer stood still, aiming at the center of the target.

The '-ing' Form

This word is a 'gerund.' Just like you add '-ing' in English, Spanish adds '-ando' to '-ar' verbs to show an action is happening right now.

Using it as a Noun

Mistake: “Using 'apuntando' to mean 'the pointing' as a subject.”

Correction: Use the base form 'apuntar' or 'el hecho de apuntar' instead. 'Apuntando' is only for the action of doing it.

indicador

een-dee-kah-DORindikaˈðoɾ

adjectiveB2general
Use 'indicador' as an adjective to describe something that shows or signals information, like a light or a sign.
A person wearing a heavy winter coat and scarf, pointing to a fact about the cold weather.

Examples

Hay luces indicadoras en el panel de control.

There are indicator lights on the control panel.

Ese gesto fue una señal indicadora de su cansancio.

That gesture was a sign indicative of his tiredness.

Buscamos una flecha indicadora del camino.

We are looking for an arrow indicating the way.

Adjective Agreement

When used as an adjective, it must match the noun. Use 'indicador' for masculine nouns and 'indicadora' for feminine nouns (e.g., 'la luz indicadora').

Verb vs. Adjective

Learners often confuse 'apuntando' and 'indicador' because they both relate to showing something. Remember that 'apuntando' is an action (pointing), while 'indicador' describes a feature that shows information.

Related Translations

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