WordGarden.iosignpost
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /sˈaɪnpəʊst/
US
- /ˈsaɪnˌpoʊst/
Meanings
Noun
a sign by a road or path that shows directions or destinations
something that points to what may happen or how something should be understood
Verb
to mark a road, path, or place with signs showing the way
to make the next step or structure clear, especially in speech or writing
Beyond the definition
A signpost is not just a post with directions on it; it can be anything that points you toward something else, in a real or figurative way. Think of the signs on a highway showing you the way to another city, but also of a character's early experiences in a novel that hint at what their future may be.
These markers are meant to be noticed. They help us find our way not only on roads, but also through ideas and situations. A sudden change in someone's behavior could be a sign that they are hiding something. In the same way, the first chapter of a book can point to what is coming later.
A signpost is, most literally, a post displaying information—typically directions—used for guidance. You see them along roads, trails, and in public spaces, helping people find their way. "The hiker relied on the infrequent signposts to stay on the correct path."
However, "signpost" also extends beyond physical markers. It can refer to anything that serves as an indicator or a clue about something else, especially a hint of what is to come. A particular event in someone's life might be a signpost pointing toward their future career. A recurring theme in a story could also act as a signpost that foreshadows the ending.
In academic writing and analysis, "signpost language" refers to words or phrases that help readers follow the structure of an argument. Phrases like "Firstly," "Secondly," and "In conclusion" are all examples of signposting. They tell you where the writer is going and how different ideas connect.
Think of a detective investigating a crime—each clue they find is a signpost leading them closer to the truth. Or imagine reading a map; the symbols and labels act as signposts helping you understand the terrain.
So, whether it's a wooden post on a highway or a subtle hint in a story, a signpost always serves one purpose: to guide us toward understanding or direction. It's about recognizing those things that point the way forward.
Examples
- 1
Road directions
At the next signpost, turn right for the station.
- 2
Route marking
The route to the campsite is well signposted.
- Phrasewell signposted
marked with clear signs
- 3
Public speaking
Good speakers signpost their main points so the audience can follow them.
- Patternsignpost + point/idea
make its structure or direction clear
- 4
Political change
Many people saw the early results as a signpost to bigger political changes.
- Patterna signpost to + future event
an early sign of what may happen
See also
Similar
- guidepost
- directional sign
Shades of meaning
- waymarker
- fingerpost
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- wooden signpost
- follow the signposts
Word family
Explore
- road sign
- wayfinding
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- signpostnounverb
Forms
- signpostspluralnounverb
- signpostedpast tenseverbnoun
- signposting-ing formverbnoun