a subtle implication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a subtle implication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an indirect or understated suggestion or meaning that is not explicitly stated. Example: "The author's use of symbolism in the story creates a subtle implication about the nature of human relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

"There was a subtle implication that if we didn't allow the club to continue, there'd be legal action," she said.

The New York Times

When student society officers, student journalists and lecturers defend these invitations and articles, there is always a subtle implication that the university is a safer, more controlled environment for rightwing extremism than wider society.

The Guardian

There is a subtle implication in this statement, which is the effect that mobile gaming has had on the games themselves.

TechCrunch

A subtle implication emerged from the interview: President Reagan had more pressing matters to attend to rather than meet the Chicago Bears, and obviously President Obama must be dropping the ball if he has the time to meet a team that won the Super Bowl over 25 years ago.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Family members and close friends might be offended at an air kiss' subtle implication that you don't know them well enough for a hug or a real kiss.

WikiHow

It's practically a mantra, with the subtle implication that the current generation of doctors consists of mere technicians.

The New York Times

Selecting a word is often more a matter of connotation, the subtle implication of ideas or emotions, than of denotation, the literal meaning.

The New York Times

By using the descriptive "African," the subtle implication is that it stands opposite an American (or an American American), which is an American from America.

Huffington Post

Sometimes he even requests them by asking a question that winkingly goes along with my subtle implication that Studs and I are buddies: "How's your boy Studs?" And though my Studs stories are economically picked from very occasional meetings, they are true nevertheless.

Huffington Post

But the filmmakers deal with more subtle implication, of "ordinary" Germans as well as a world community that did not step in to save the Jews.

The New York Times - Arts

And yet it is women, we are told, who need to "heed warnings" and "watch for signs" – the subtle implication being that at some stage, it is the victim's job to see the signs and get the hell out.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a subtle implication", ensure that the context provides enough cues for the reader to grasp the intended meaning. Otherwise, the subtlety may be lost.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a subtle implication" if clarity is paramount. In situations where precise communication is essential, a direct statement is often more effective than relying on the reader to infer your meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a subtle implication" functions as a noun phrase, where "subtle" modifies the noun "implication". Ludwig AI shows that it typically refers to an indirect or understated suggestion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a subtle implication" is a phrase used to describe an indirect suggestion or hint. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in English writing. While not exceptionally frequent, it is found across various contexts, primarily in news and media, suggesting its use is appropriate for conveying nuanced meanings. When employing this phrase, ensure that your writing provides enough context for readers to grasp the intended meaning, and be mindful of overusing subtlety when clarity is paramount. Alternative phrases, such as "a delicate suggestion" or "an understated hint", can be considered based on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a delicate suggestion

Emphasizes the gentleness and indirectness of the hint.

an understated hint

Highlights the muted and reserved nature of the clue.

a veiled insinuation

Focuses on the concealed and often negative nature of the suggestion.

a tacit understanding

Implies a shared, unspoken agreement or assumption.

an implicit message

Stresses that the message is conveyed indirectly, without being explicitly stated.

an indirect inference

Highlights the need to deduce the meaning rather than it being plainly presented.

a faint indication

Indicates a weak or barely noticeable signal.

a suggestive element

Points to a feature that implies something beyond its literal meaning.

a knowing glance

Suggests a silent communication that is understood between individuals.

a suggestive undertone

Emphasizes the secondary, implied meaning beneath the surface.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a subtle implication" in my writing?

To use "a subtle implication" effectively, provide enough context and clues so that readers can infer the intended meaning without it being explicitly stated. This technique works well when you want to add nuance or suggestion to your writing.

What are some alternatives to "a subtle implication"?

Alternatives to "a subtle implication" include "a delicate suggestion", "an understated hint", or "a veiled insinuation", depending on the specific context and desired emphasis.

Is "a subtle implication" always a positive or negative thing?

The nature of "a subtle implication" (positive or negative) depends on the context. It can be used to hint at something positive, such as praise or encouragement, or something negative, such as criticism or warning. The surrounding information determines its connotation.

How does "a subtle implication" differ from a direct statement?

"A subtle implication" conveys meaning indirectly, relying on the reader to infer the message from the context. A direct statement, on the other hand, explicitly expresses the message without requiring any inference.