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indicio means clue — a common term in Academic & Exam Prep. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: February 14, 2026

🧠 Academic & Exam Prep

indicio

noun • /[in-DEE-syo]/

clue

Example:

No hay indicios de plagio.

There are no clues of plagiarism.

🧠 What does indicio mean?

An 'indicio' is a sign, trace, or piece of information that suggests the existence of something else, without being conclusive proof. It is often translated as 'clue,' 'sign,' or 'indication' and is frequently used in formal, academic, or legal contexts to refer to circumstantial evidence or signs that point toward a particular conclusion or fact.

📚 Extra examples

  • La falta de respuesta es un claro indicio de su desinterés.
    The lack of a response is a clear indication of their disinterest.
  • Los arqueólogos buscan indicios de civilizaciones antiguas en la zona.
    The archaeologists are looking for traces of ancient civilizations in the area.
  • Según el fiscal, existían suficientes indicios para iniciar un juicio.
    According to the prosecutor, there was enough evidence to start a trial.

💡 Did You Know?

In a legal context, a distinction is often made between 'indicio' and 'prueba' (proof). An 'indicio' is a piece of circumstantial evidence that suggests a fact, but is not conclusive on its own. A collection of 'indicios' can be used to build a case, which may eventually lead to 'prueba,' or definitive proof.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "indicio"

Synonyms: señal, pista, signo, síntoma, huella, rastro
Opposites: prueba, evidencia, certeza, confirmación

🔍 See more academic & exam prep words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'clue' in Spanish?
Both 'indicio' and 'pista' can mean 'clue.' However, 'indicio' is more formal and often refers to a sign or piece of circumstantial evidence. 'Pista' is more common for a hint in a game or a direct lead in an investigation.
How do you pronounce 'indicio' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is een-DEE-see-oh. The stress falls on the second syllable, '-di-'.
How do you use 'indicio' in a sentence?
A simple example is: 'El humo es un indicio de fuego.' This means 'Smoke is a sign of fire.'
What is the English translation of 'indicio'?
The primary English translations are 'clue,' 'sign,' 'indication,' 'trace,' and 'piece of evidence.'
Does 'indicio' change for gender or number?
'Indicio' is a masculine noun. The singular form is 'el indicio,' and the plural form is 'los indicios.'
Is 'indicio' common in everyday Spanish?
It is more common in formal registers such as journalism, legal discussions, or academic writing. In casual conversation, words like 'señal' (sign) or 'pista' (clue, hint) are often preferred.
Does 'indicio' have slang or double meanings?
No, 'indicio' does not have any common slang or secondary meanings. It is a straightforward term used in its formal sense.
Is 'indicio' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and use of 'indicio' are consistent across the Spanish-speaking world.

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