a veiled implication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a veiled implication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a suggestion or hint that is not stated directly, often to convey something indirectly or subtly. Example: "Her comments about the project deadline were a veiled implication that she expected us to work overtime."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reports that the former president is now "cooperating" with the investigations of the Obama Transition are now flooding the news media characterizing the situation by the veiled implication that William Jefferson Clinton might be the leading suspect in a series of major international crimes.

Huffington Post

In a letter sent earlier this month, Mr. Calleja made a veiled threat that this could "have immediate implications on the current air services agreement between the EU and Israel".

The New York Times

Some of the hue and cry has involved matters of political allegory and theological implication, as pundits have divined that this globally popular blockbuster may represent a veiled ideological attack on America, capitalism, humanity, monotheism or all of the above.

The New York Times

Or a veiled threat?

The New York Times

Nonetheless, he still made a veiled threat.

The Economist

Is this a veiled Ukip broadcast?

The Guardian - Film

I lived in a veiled landscape.

The New York Times - Health

Was this a veiled Spector reference?

The New Yorker

It was a veiled insult directed at me.

The New Yorker

'The powerful sense of a veiled introvert': Frank Ocean.

The Guardian - Music

In Iran, toy shops sell a veiled doll called Sara.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a veiled implication" when you want to subtly suggest something without stating it directly, leaving room for interpretation or plausible deniability.

Common error

Avoid using "a veiled implication" when directness is necessary. Clear and concise language is often preferable, especially in professional settings or when clarity is paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a veiled implication" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an indirect or subtle suggestion. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

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Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Wiki

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Encyclopedias

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a veiled implication" describes an indirect suggestion or hint. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general usability. While it isn't commonly used, it serves a specific purpose in conveying information subtly. Alternative phrases such as "a subtle suggestion" or "an indirect insinuation" can be used to convey similar meanings. When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the desired level of directness in your communication and consider whether a more explicit statement would be more appropriate. The key is to strike a balance between tact and clarity depending on your audience and the context of communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a subtle suggestion

This alternative emphasizes the subtlety and indirectness of the hint.

an indirect insinuation

This option highlights the indirect and often negative nature of the implication.

a tacit inference

This phrase focuses on the unspoken nature of the conclusion drawn.

a hinted meaning

This emphasizes the meaning being communicated through a hint.

a disguised suggestion

This implies that the suggestion is intentionally hidden.

a coded message

This suggests the message is communicated in a non-obvious format.

an oblique reference

This alternative points to a reference made indirectly.

a roundabout hint

This highlights the circuitous nature of the communication.

an implicit understanding

This emphasizes the understanding derived without explicit communication.

a suggestive nuance

This alternative focuses on a subtle difference in meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "a veiled implication" in a sentence?

You can use "a veiled implication" to describe a hint or suggestion that is not openly expressed. For example, "Her comment about the budget was "a veiled implication" that cuts were coming".

What is the difference between "a veiled implication" and a direct statement?

"A veiled implication" is indirect and subtle, while a direct statement is clear and explicit. The former leaves room for interpretation, while the latter leaves no doubt about the meaning.

What can I say instead of "a veiled implication"?

You can use alternatives like "a subtle suggestion", "an indirect insinuation", or "a tacit inference" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a veiled implication"?

It's appropriate to use "a veiled implication" when you want to hint at something without stating it explicitly, perhaps to avoid confrontation or to allow the recipient to draw their own conclusions.