a hint that

USAGE SUMMARY

"a hint that" is a grammatically correct phrase that is commonly used in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clue or suggestion about something. Example: "His tone of voice was a hint that he was not happy with the decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This could be a hint, that saturation effects in the vapor increases the background.

EPJ Quantum Technology

Our results are a hint that established CVD risk prediction models are worth being revisited.

Cardiovascular Diabetology

But now there's a hint that it just might be.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a hint that there's something unexpected inside," he said.

The New York Times

It's a hint that proves impossible not to take.

The New York Times

President Jiang Zemin has at least sent a hint that he perceives a problem.

The Economist

Did that give a hint that possibly I was into theatrics?

The New Yorker

Indeed, the historical record provides a hint that something was afoot around this time.

The Economist

Mr. Cook might have given a hint that such a product could be coming soon.

The New York Times

(There's always a hint that he may be putting everyone on).

The New York Times

Over in the Senate, there is a hint that the ice could thaw if Obama wins.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a hint that" to introduce subtle clues or indications within your writing. This can create anticipation and engage the reader, prompting them to consider underlying meanings or potential outcomes.

Common error

Avoid presenting "a hint that" as definitive proof. A hint is subtle and suggestive, not conclusive. Overstating it can weaken your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hint that" functions as a transitional phrase introducing a subtle clue or indication. It serves to suggest something indirectly, prompting the reader to infer a connection or potential outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Science

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a hint that" is a versatile phrase used to introduce subtle clues or indications, as confirmed by Ludwig. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various contexts, from news and media to scientific writing. While "a hint that" doesn't provide conclusive evidence, it serves to guide the audience toward a particular understanding by suggesting indirect connections or potential outcomes. Common alternatives include "an indication that" and "a suggestion that". When using "a hint that", avoid overstating the implication, as it should remain a subtle suggestion rather than a definitive proof.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an indication that

This alternative replaces "hint" with "indication", offering a more formal tone while maintaining the core meaning.

a suggestion that

Using "suggestion" softens the implication, presenting it as a possible but not definitive clue.

a clue that

"Clue" implies a more direct and intentional piece of information leading to a conclusion.

an implication that

"Implication" suggests that the hint is not directly stated but can be inferred.

a sign that

"Sign" denotes something that clearly points towards a particular conclusion or situation.

an inkling that

"Inkling" conveys a vague or uncertain feeling or idea about something.

a suspicion that

"Suspicion" implies a feeling of doubt or mistrust, often without concrete evidence.

a feeling that

This phrase expresses a subjective sense or intuition about something.

an impression that

"Impression" refers to a general idea or belief formed about something.

a notion that

"Notion" suggests a belief or opinion, often one that is not firmly established.

FAQs

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

Use "a hint that" to introduce a subtle clue or indication. For instance, "His nervous laughter was "a hint that" he was uncomfortable with the question."

What are some alternatives to "a hint that"?

You can use alternatives like "an indication that", "a suggestion that", or "a clue that" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "a hint that" in formal writing?

Yes, "a hint that" is suitable for formal writing, but ensure the hint is presented subtly and doesn't undermine the overall argument. More formal options such as "an indication that" might be preferred in certain contexts.

What's the difference between "a hint that" and "proof that"?

"A hint that" suggests something indirectly, while "proof that" provides conclusive evidence. Using ""a hint that"" implies a subtle clue, whereas "proof that" asserts a verified fact.