being a sign or symptom of a larger problem

symptomatic

adjective|/ˌsɪmp.təˈmæt.ɪk/

Serving as a symptom or sign of something, especially an undesirable condition

Examples

In a meeting

High turnover is symptomatic of deeper organizational health issues.

Over coffee

Your constant fatigue might be symptomatic of a vitamin deficiency.

Why this word

indicative

symptomatic specifically shows signs of a disease or condition, indicative is general suggestion

characteristic

symptomatic relates to observable signs of illness, characteristic is about typical features

suggestive

symptomatic medically indicates presence of a condition through symptoms, suggestive is vague hinting

Usage tip

Use when identifying indicators of underlying problems. Can apply to health or broader systemic issues.

Etymology

Greek: symptoma (anything that has befallen)

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