drop a hint

USAGE SUMMARY

It is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to allow someone to figure out something without directly telling them the answer. For example, "We were trying to figure out what the surprise for our anniversary is, so I dropped a hint that it might involve travelling somewhere special."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Did Michael Cohen just drop a hint about flipping on Trump?

The Washington Post

She did, however, drop a hint about a possible new television role.

The Guardian

To be fair, though, it's Ramírez who dares to drop a hint about the bond between the two adventurers.

The New Yorker

He wouldn't if he intended to continue heeding the bicycling world's code of omerta: Don't tell, don't ask, don't even drop a hint.

The New York Times - Sports

Another shopper fretted that she might have to drop a hint to her husband regarding what she might merit for the coming special occasion.

The New York Times

Those forays into the public eye will be opportunities for the president to drop a hint about his negotiating position on the deficit reduction and debt ceiling talks with Congress.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

Flower dropped a hint about the way he might be thinking.

Independent

"We're trying to figure out what we'll do next," he said, dropping a hint.

The New York Times

The one time Bobby had dropped a hint, he'd suggested something of the sort.

The New Yorker

Those Sunderland supporters that remained dropped a hint to the club's owner.

The Guardian - Sport

Last month, Williams dropped a hint that next season would be "the end of Arya, as far as anyone knows".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you want someone to understand something without explicitly saying it, use "drop a hint". It's effective in social situations, negotiations, or when teaching someone without giving away the answer directly.

Common error

Avoid excessive hinting if direct communication is more appropriate. Overuse of "drop a hint" can lead to misunderstandings or frustration. Be mindful of your audience and the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "drop a hint" functions as a verb phrase, typically used within a clause to describe the action of indirectly suggesting or implying something. As noted by Ludwig, it indicates a deliberate act of providing a clue or suggestion.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "drop a hint" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to describe the act of subtly suggesting something. Ludwig's AI confirms its correct usage. It is most frequently found in News & Media, and Wiki contexts. When using "drop a hint", it's important to ensure it aligns with the intended tone and context, avoiding overuse that could lead to miscommunication. Alternatives like "offer a suggestion" or "imply subtly" may be suitable depending on the desired level of directness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggest without saying directly

More explicitly conveys the act of hinting through indirect communication.

imply subtly

Highlights the indirect nature of the communication, using a more sophisticated verb.

offer a suggestion

Replaces "hint" with a more direct term, suggesting a slightly more overt communication.

insinuate indirectly

Similar to "imply subtly", but with a connotation of hinting at something sensitive or delicate.

signal discreetly

Focuses on the act of signaling in a careful and unobtrusive manner.

give an indication

Focuses on providing a sign or signal, rather than a subtle suggestion.

intimate something

Suggests a more personal or private way of conveying a hint.

tip off gently

Implies providing a small amount of information in a delicate way.

leave a clue

Emphasizes providing a piece of information that aids in solving a puzzle or understanding something.

make an allusion

Involves referencing something indirectly, often requiring the listener to have prior knowledge.

FAQs

How can I "drop a hint" without being too obvious?

Use subtle language, body language, or bring up related topics without directly stating what you want. The key is to make the connection clear enough for the other person to infer, but not so obvious that it feels like a demand.

What's the difference between "drop a hint" and "make a suggestion"?

"Drop a hint" implies indirectness and subtlety, while "make a suggestion" is a more direct way of offering an idea or course of action. Hints require interpretation, while suggestions are more explicit.

When is it appropriate to "drop a hint" instead of being direct?

It's appropriate to "drop a hint" when you want to be polite, avoid confrontation, test the waters, or encourage someone to figure something out on their own. If directness is needed for clarity or efficiency, avoid hinting.

What are some alternatives to "drop a hint"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "offer a suggestion", "give an indication", or "imply subtly". The best choice depends on the nuance you want to convey.