指標

• Reading: しひょう
• Romaji: shihyou
• Kanji breakdown: 指 (shi/yubi) — finger, point; 標 (hyou) — mark, sign, indicator
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.çoː/

Meaning

Index; indicator; benchmark. A numerical or qualitative measure used to evaluate status or progress.

A formal noun used heavily in economics, business, and data analysis to refer to metrics or benchmarks. Common collocations include 経済指標 (economic indicator) and 指標となる (to serve as an indicator). Essential vocabulary for reading news articles and reports.

Examples

1. 経済指標によると景気は回復傾向にある。 According to economic indicators, the economy is trending toward recovery.
2. 売上を成功の指標として使うのは危険だ。 It's risky to use sales figures as the sole indicator of success.
3. この数値が重要な指標となる。 This number serves as an important benchmark.

Usage Guide

Context: economics, business, data analysis

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 指 (shi, point/indicate) + 標 (hyou, mark/sign). Together they form a word meaning 'a marker that points toward something,' i.e. an indicator or benchmark.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal