turn indicator
C1Formal, Technical
Definition
Meaning
A device on a vehicle that signals the driver's intention to turn left or right.
Any signal, sign, or device that indicates a directional change or shift in position. In broader contexts, it can refer to any indicator of a coming change in direction or strategy.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily a technical/automotive term. In everyday speech, 'indicator' is often used alone. The phrase can function metaphorically outside of driving contexts.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
British English strongly prefers 'indicator' on its own in casual speech. American English uses 'turn signal' as the primary equivalent, though 'turn indicator' is understood in technical/formal registers.
Connotations
In the UK, 'turn indicator' sounds slightly more formal or technical than just 'indicator'. In the US, it may sound more precise or slightly old-fashioned compared to 'turn signal'.
Frequency
More frequent in written technical manuals or formal descriptions than in spontaneous spoken language in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The [vehicle] has a faulty turn indicator.Activate the turn indicator before [manoeuvre].The turn indicator on the [side] is not working.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms directly for 'turn indicator']”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rare, except in automotive industry reports or product specifications.
Academic
Used in engineering, design, and transportation studies texts.
Everyday
Used when giving driving instructions or discussing car maintenance.
Technical
Standard term in vehicle manuals, MOT/test guides, and engineering contexts.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- You must always indicate before turning.
- He failed to indicate at the roundabout.
American English
- Remember to signal before changing lanes.
- The driver didn't signal for the right turn.
adverb
British English
- [Not typically used as an adverb for this phrase]
American English
- [Not typically used as an adverb for this phrase]
adjective
British English
- The indicator stalk is on the left.
- The indicator lights were malfunctioning.
American English
- The signal lever is on the steering column.
- The turn signal bulb needs replacement.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The car has a light for left and right.
- Before you turn, you should use your turn indicator.
- The mechanic explained that a faulty relay was causing the turn indicator to flash rapidly.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
TURN INDICATOR = INDICATES your TURN. Think of the arrow on your car's dashboard that lights up when you indicate a turn.
Conceptual Metaphor
SIGNALING INTENTION IS LIGHTING A PATH. The flashing light metaphorically 'lights up' the driver's intended path for others.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct calque 'поворотный индикатор' in casual speech; use 'поворотник' (povorotnik).
- Do not confuse with 'указатель поворота', which is the full formal term.
Common Mistakes
- Saying 'turn *indication*' instead of 'turn indicator'.
- Using 'turn indicator' in very casual conversation where just 'indicator' or 'signal' would be more natural.
Practice
Quiz
In American English, what is the most common everyday term for a 'turn indicator'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. A turn indicator signals an intended directional change (left/right). Hazard lights (or hazard warning lights) are all turn indicators flashing simultaneously to signal that the vehicle is stationary and causing a temporary hazard.
Yes, in British English, 'indicator' is the standard, widely understood term in both casual and formal contexts. 'Turn indicator' is more formal/technical.
Trafficator' or 'semaphore' were mechanical, arm-like indicators used on older cars before flashing lights became standard.
They are synonyms. 'Turn signal' is strongly preferred in American English. 'Turn indicator' is more formal/technical and is used in both British and American English, especially in writing.