Synonyms for

Imply

Verb / ˌɪˈmplaɪ / Another word for imply — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to suggest or hint at something without saying it directly

Synonyms & similar words

mean inculpate entail connote incriminate involve suggest hint indicate insinuate allude infer convey communicate intimate mean signify betoken evidence denote mention impart

Synonyms by register

Formal

suggest indicate hint connote

Informal

mean get at allude to

Literary

insinuate shadow

Antonyms

state declare express articulate assert avow profess

Common collocations

  • imply a connection
  • imply a threat
  • imply guilt
  • imply knowledge
  • imply agreement
  • imply a reason

Word family

noun implication
verb imply
adjective implicit
adverb implicitly

Usage note

Often confused with 'infer', which means to deduce something from evidence. 'Imply' is about suggesting something without stating it directly.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher implied that we should study for the test.
  2. He implied that he wanted to go home by yawning loudly.
  3. The sign on the door implied that the store was closed.
  4. She implied that she didn't want to go to the party by saying she was busy.
  5. The text message implied that the person was running late.

Quotes

  • The fact that something is said with a smile does not imply that it is humorous.
  • It is not what we say or think that defines us, but what we do. - Jane Austen
  • To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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