How to Say "to indicate" in Spanish
The most common Spanish word for “to indicate” is “indicar” — use 'indicar' when you are directly showing, pointing out, or demonstrating something, like a location, a direction, or a fact.
indicar
in-dee-KARin.diˈkaɾ
Examples
El mapa indica dónde está el tesoro.
The map indicates where the treasure is.
El profesor indicó la respuesta correcta en la pizarra.
The teacher indicated the correct answer on the board.
¿Puedes indicarme dónde está el baño?
Can you show me where the bathroom is?
La señal indica que debemos girar a la derecha.
The sign indicates that we must turn right.
Regular -AR Verb Pattern
Indicar follows the regular pattern for -AR verbs. For present tense: remove -AR and add the appropriate ending for each person (o, as, a, amos, áis, an).
Confusion with Similar Verbs
Mistake: “Using 'indicar' when 'señar' (to sign) or 'informar' (to inform) would be more appropriate”
Correction: Use 'indicar' when you want to show or point out something physically or symbolically. Use 'señar' for giving signatures or signs, and 'informar' for providing information.
señalar
Examples
Las estadísticas señalan un aumento en el desempleo.
The statistics indicate an increase in unemployment.
decir
deh-SEERdeˈθiɾ
Examples
El letrero dice 'salida de emergencia'.
The sign says 'emergency exit'.
El cartel dice 'prohibido el paso'.
The sign says 'no entry'.
Su cara lo decía todo.
His face said it all.
El primer capítulo no dice nada sobre su pasado.
The first chapter doesn't say anything about his past.
Direct vs. Stated Information
Related Translations
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