Word
imply
Meanings
to suggest or communicate an idea without stating it directly
to indicate that something is likely true or will happen, based on evidence or signs
Definition
To imply means to suggest something without saying it directly.
To imply is to communicate an idea indirectly, so the listener has to understand it from hints or context. People imply things through tone, wording, or actions rather than clear statements. What is implied may be different from what is explicitly said, so it can sometimes cause misunderstandings.
Examples
- Are you implying that I lied?
- His silence seemed to imply that he agreed.
- The report implies that prices will rise soon.
- She didn’t say it, but her tone did imply criticism.