Collocations with INDEX
Navigating the nuances of English often means moving beyond individual words and understanding how they naturally pair with others. This is where collocations come in!
- Do you ever wonder if you should “make an index” or “create an index”?
- Is it correct to “index a book” or “make an index of a book”?
- How do native speakers talk about economic indicators using the word “index”?
Mastering collocations for words like ‘index’ is crucial for sounding natural and fluent. It helps reduce language anxiety and boosts your confidence in both spoken and written English. Let’s dive deep into the world of ‘index’ collocations!
Essential Collocations using INDEX as a Noun
As a noun, ‘index’ can refer to a list, a pointer, or a numerical indicator. Understanding these different meanings will help you use its collocations correctly.
Referring to a List or Guide
When ‘index’ means an alphabetical list, often found at the back of a book, or a comprehensive record.
- create an index: To compile a list of names, subjects, etc., usually at the end of a book.
Example: The publisher hired someone to create an index for the new history textbook.
- compile an index: Similar to ‘create’, emphasizing the process of gathering and organizing.
Example: It took weeks to compile an index comprehensive enough for the multi-volume encyclopedia.
- consult the index: To look up information in an index.
Example: If you can’t find a specific topic, try to consult the index at the back of the book.
- subject index: An index organized by topics or themes.
Example: The library has a comprehensive subject index for all its scientific journals.
- author index: An index listing works by specific authors.
Example: Researchers often use the author index to find articles by their peers.
- general index: A broad index covering various topics within a publication.
Example: Always check the general index for an overview of the book’s content.
Referring to a Numerical Indicator or Measure
In economics, statistics, and science, ‘index’ often refers to a number or a scale that indicates a level or change.
- stock market index: A statistical measure of changes in the stock market.
Example: The stock market index fell sharply today due to economic uncertainty.
- consumer price index (CPI): A measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services.
Example: The government monitors the consumer price index closely to track inflation.
- cost of living index: A theoretical price index that measures the relative cost of living over time or regions.
Example: The city’s high cost of living index makes it challenging for new graduates.
- global competitiveness index: An index that measures a nation’s ability to provide high levels of prosperity to its citizens.
Example: Switzerland consistently ranks high on the global competitiveness index.
- body mass index (BMI): A measure of body fat based on height and weight.
Example: Doctors often calculate body mass index to assess a patient’s health risks.
- an index of: A general phrase used to describe what the index represents.
Example: Housing prices are often considered an index of economic stability.
Other Common Noun Collocations
- index finger: The finger next to the thumb.
Example: He pointed with his index finger to the correct answer on the map.
Common Collocations with INDEX as a Verb
When ‘index’ acts as a verb, it generally means to create an index, to record, or to adjust according to an index.
To Create or Record an Index
Using ‘index’ to describe the action of making an organized list or record.
- index a book: To create an index for a book.
Example: It’s a demanding job to correctly index a book with so many technical terms.
- index a database: To organize data in a database for efficient retrieval.
Example: The system automatically indexes a database every night to ensure fast searches.
- index a website: For search engines, to add a website’s pages to their database for search results.
Example: Google strives to index a website quickly so new content appears in searches.
- index a document: To add an item to an index or a system for easy lookup.
Example: All new legal briefs are immediately indexed a document by the administrative staff.
To Adjust According to an Index
In economics, this means to link something (like wages or prices) to a specific index so it changes in line with that index.
- index to inflation: To adjust something (like wages or benefits) in line with the rate of inflation.
Example: Many pension schemes are indexed to inflation to protect their value over time.
- index salaries: To adjust salaries regularly based on an economic index.
Example: Some unions negotiate contracts that index salaries annually to the cost of living.
- index prices: To adjust the prices of goods or services based on a relevant economic index.
Example: Governments might index prices of certain staple foods to prevent excessive fluctuations.
Master Summary Table of Index Collocations
Here’s a quick reference guide to some of the most useful collocations with ‘index’.
| Collocation | Part of Speech | Quick Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| create an index | Noun (Verb + Noun) | To compile a list, typically for a book |
| consult the index | Noun (Verb + Noun) | To look something up in a list |
| subject index | Noun (Adj + Noun) | A list organized by topic |
| stock market index | Noun (Noun + Noun) | A measure of stock market performance |
| consumer price index | Noun (Adj + Noun + Noun) | A measure of inflation |
| body mass index (BMI) | Noun (Noun + Noun + Noun) | A measure of body fat based on height/weight |
| index finger | Noun (Noun + Noun) | The finger next to the thumb |
| index a book | Verb (Verb + Noun) | To create an alphabetical list for a book |
| index a database | Verb (Verb + Noun) | To organize data for search efficiency |
| index to inflation | Verb (Verb + Preposition + Noun) | To adjust something based on inflation |
| index salaries | Verb (Verb + Noun) | To adjust salaries based on an index |
Common Mistakes: Natural vs Unnatural
Avoid these common errors to sound more like a native speaker!
| Do Not Say | Say This |
|---|---|
| make an index of the book | create an index for the book / index the book |
| the prices adjust to the index | the prices are indexed to inflation / the prices index to the CPI |
| give an index to the chapter | consult the index for the chapter / refer to the table of contents |
| high index of living | high cost of living index |
| finger of index | index finger |
Subject: Project Status Update
Hi Team,
I hope this email finds you well. Just a quick update on the ‘Phoenix Database’ project. We’re on schedule to fully index the database by the end of next week, which will significantly improve search efficiency. I also wanted to share some insights from our recent market analysis: the consumer price index showed a slight increase this quarter, indicating potential inflationary pressures. Moving forward, we need to consider how this might affect our budget, especially for operational costs, as these are typically indexed to inflation. Please consult the index in the project documentation for a detailed breakdown of the data fields.
Best regards,
Sarah
Frequently Asked Questions about Index Collocations
What’s the difference between “create an index” and “index a book”?
Both are correct! “Create an index” treats “index” as a noun, meaning to produce the list itself. “Index a book” uses “index” as a verb, meaning to perform the action of adding an index to the book. They convey a very similar meaning in the context of books.
Can I say “index of subjects” instead of “subject index”?
While “index of subjects” is grammatically correct and understandable, “subject index” is the much more common and natural collocation in modern English. It’s concise and widely used in academic and publishing contexts.
When is “index to” used as a verb?
“Index to” is primarily used in economic contexts when discussing adjustments. For example, “wages are indexed to inflation” means wages are adjusted in proportion to the inflation rate. It signifies a direct link or correlation for adjustment.
Are “index finger” and “pointer finger” interchangeable?
Yes, “pointer finger” is an informal synonym for “index finger,” which is the more formal and commonly accepted term. Both refer to the same digit, but “index finger” is preferred in most standard English contexts.
What is the plural of “index”? Is it “indexes” or “indices”?
Both “indexes” and “indices” are correct plural forms. “Indexes” is more common in general English, especially when referring to lists or numerical indicators (e.g., “stock market indexes”). “Indices” (pronounced IN-di-sees) is often used in more formal or technical contexts, particularly in mathematics, science, or economics (e.g., “mathematical indices,” “price indices”).
This article highlights perfectly why simply knowing a word's definition isn't enough. Context and natural pairing are everything for true fluency. It's a fundamental lesson in language learning.
You've absolutely hit the nail on the head, Omar! Rote memorization of definitions can only take you so far. Embracing collocations and understanding context is indeed fundamental for achieving true fluency and sounding like a natural speaker. We couldn't agree more!
I found the part about economic indicators super useful. I often read financial news and this clarifies a lot of the terminology around 'index'. Now I understand the difference between 'the index rose' and 'an index was created' much better.
That's wonderful, Nadia! Understanding 'index' in financial contexts is incredibly valuable for global news comprehension. Recognizing how its meaning and collocations shift depending on whether it's a list, a pointer, or an economic measure is a significant step in your English journey. Keep an eye on those headlines!
Are there any common mistakes learners make with 'index' collocations that I should watch out for? Knowing pitfalls helps me avoid them!
That's a proactive approach, Kenji! A common mistake is using 'do an index' instead of 'create an index' or 'compile an index.' Also, sometimes learners might incorrectly apply 'index' to situations where 'table of contents' is more appropriate. Remember, an index is typically an alphabetical list of specific terms/topics with page numbers, usually at the back, while a table of contents outlines chapter headings at the front. Paying attention to these distinctions will greatly improve your accuracy!
This article is a lifesaver for my academic writing! Collocations are truly the key to sounding fluent and professional, and 'index' is one of those words I often second-guess. Thanks for demystifying it!
We're so glad to hear that, Sofia! You've perfectly articulated the importance of collocations in academic writing. They really do elevate your prose. Keep up the great work in your studies!
Is there any situation where you'd simply 'make an index' without specifying 'of a book' or 'of a subject'? For instance, in a very casual or implied context?
That's a very insightful question, David! Yes, in informal contexts or if the object is clearly understood from the conversation, you might simply say 'make an index.' For example, if you're talking about a report you just finished, you might say 'I need to make an index before sending it out.' The 'of the report' is implied. However, in formal writing or when precision is key, explicitly stating 'of [something]' is always recommended.
The difference between 'create an index' and 'compile an index' is something I struggle with. Are they fully interchangeable in all contexts, or is there a subtle nuance to consider?
Hi Li Na! While 'create an index' and 'compile an index' are often used interchangeably, there can be a subtle nuance. 'Create' often implies initiating something new from scratch. 'Compile' often suggests gathering, organizing, and assembling existing information to form the index. So, if you're building a brand new index without pre-existing components, 'create' might be slightly more apt. If you're putting together various entries into a cohesive list, 'compile' fits perfectly. However, for most general uses, either is acceptable!
As a native speaker, I hadn't consciously thought about these collocations for 'index' before, but it's a brilliant way to break down natural usage. Very insightful and well-explained! Kudos to the Translateen team!
Thank you so much for the kind words, Ben! It's always rewarding to hear that our explanations resonate even with native speakers, highlighting the often unconscious rules of language. We appreciate your positive feedback!
I loved the examples provided! Could you perhaps add some more about 'stock market index' or 'consumer price index'? Those are terms I encounter frequently in news and would love to understand their collocations better.
Great suggestion, Maria! You're absolutely right; economic indicators are a major context for 'index.' Common collocations include 'track an index,' 'follow an index,' 'an index rises/falls,' 'a leading index,' or 'a lagging index.' For example, 'Investors closely follow the Dow Jones Industrial Average index.' We'll definitely consider expanding on these for future content!
What about 'index finger'? Is that related to the 'pointer' meaning of 'index'? It wasn't explicitly mentioned, but it crossed my mind while reading.
Excellent observation, Rajesh! You've hit on a perfect example. The 'index finger' is indeed named because it's the finger most commonly used for pointing or indicating, directly relating to the 'pointer' meaning of 'index.' It's a great illustration of how these meanings are embedded in common phrases!
Can you give more examples of 'index' used as a 'pointer' or 'indicator' beyond the book context? The article mentions it briefly, but I'm curious about other applications, maybe in science or technology.
Certainly, Chloé! When 'index' refers to a pointer or indicator, it often appears in more technical contexts. For instance, in optics, the 'refractive index' indicates how much light bends as it passes through a material. In computer science, an 'index' can refer to a numerical value identifying the position of an item in a sequence (e.g., 'array index'). And don't forget the 'index finger,' which points! We'll consider a follow-up article exploring these specific uses in more depth!