a hint

USAGE SUMMARY

"a hint" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when providing a subtle suggestion as to how something could be done or a likely outcome. For example, "She gave me a hint that I should try the apple tart."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reader, take a hint.

The New York Times - Books

Well, here's a hint.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Just a hint, though.

The New York Times - Arts

"Maybe just a hint.

The New Yorker

A hint of flexibility.

The Economist

Just a hint.

The New York Times - Arts

"Not even a hint".

The New York Times

Need a hint?

The New York Times

A hint: think process.

The New York Times - Arts

That's a hint.

The New York Times

Honey, that's a hint.

The New York Times - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a hint" when you want to subtly suggest something without being explicit, allowing the recipient to infer the meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "a hint" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more direct and precise language to maintain clarity and professionalism.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hint" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It serves to identify something that suggests or indicates information indirectly. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the phrase is perfectly valid in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hint" is a versatile and frequently used noun phrase that provides a subtle suggestion or indication. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various audiences. Alternatives include ""a suggestion"" or ""a clue"", but choosing the best option depends on the specific context. Remember to avoid overusing "a hint" in highly formal writing to maintain clarity. Whether you're dropping a subtle suggestion or solving a puzzle, understanding the nuances of "a hint" ensures effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a clue

Similar to "a hint", but often used in the context of solving a puzzle or mystery.

a suggestion

This alternative offers a more direct way of implying something, moving slightly away from the subtlety of "a hint".

an indication

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes pointing something out without explicitly stating it.

a tip-off

This implies a more informal and often confidential piece of information.

a whisper

Emphasizes the subtlety and quietness of the suggestion.

a glimmer

Suggests a faint or fleeting sign of something.

an inkling

Refers to a vague idea or feeling about something.

a suspicion

Implies a feeling of doubt or mistrust, often based on limited evidence.

a shade

Indicates a slight degree or amount of something.

a touch

Similar to "a shade", suggesting a small amount or element.

FAQs

How can I use "a hint" in a sentence?

You can use "a hint" to subtly suggest something, as in "She dropped "a hint" about the surprise party" or "He gave me "a hint" that I should study harder".

What are some alternatives to saying "a hint"?

Instead of "a hint", you could use "a suggestion", "a clue", or "an indication", depending on the context.

Is it better to be direct or give "a hint"?

Whether to be direct or give "a hint" depends on the situation. Being direct is clearer, but giving "a hint" can be more tactful or playful.

What does it mean when someone says "take a hint"?

When someone says "take "take a hint"", it means they want you to understand something without them having to say it explicitly, often because they are uncomfortable being direct.