das Anzeichen
Translation
sign, indication, symptom, evidence
Examples
Das sind die ersten Anzeichen einer Erkältung.
These are the first signs of a cold.
Es gibt keine Anzeichen für eine Besserung.
There are no signs of improvement.
Grammar Patterns
a sign of sth. ein Anzeichen von+3 He showed signs of fatigue.
a sign for sth. ein Anzeichen für+4 This is a sign for a change.
Similar Words
Synonyms: symptom, hint, indication, clue
Etymology
Composed of 'an' (on, at) and 'Zeichen' (sign). The literal meaning is 'a sign on' something, which points to a certain state or development.
Memory Tips
Imagine a 'sign' (Zeichen) that is attached 'on' ('an') something, giving you a clue about it. For example, dark clouds are a sign of rain.