hint from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hint from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a suggestion or indication received from someone or something. Example: "I received a hint from my friend that there might be a surprise party planned for me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The government should take a hint from the electorate.

The Guardian - Business

But here is a hint from the phone book.

The New York Times

Take a hint from the restaurant's name, Kyma, which means wave, and head for those fish.

The New York Times

Why didn't they take a hint from the vehicles already stuck in snow directly up ahead?

The New Yorker

Take a hint from the restaurant's name and head for the seafood.

The New York Times

Taking a hint from Patrick Swayze in "Ghost," he dives into human hosts.

The New York Times - Books

He ignored a public hint from Mr. Haider that they could form a black-blue coalition.

The New York Times

So take a hint from Candy Spelling — the inventor of the gift-wrapping room — and reprogram all those extra bedrooms.

The New York Times

And how much can you limit your total bag weight?" This was my first packing hint from Nick Kristof.

The New York Times

Any hint from Labour that Scotland is incapable of looking after itself will irk Scots and delight the SNP.

The Economist

I am informed of eight at least who fell into fits".County members may take a hint from the following.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "hint from", ensure the source of the hint is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming a stronger or more direct message than intended when interpreting a "hint from" someone. Subtle hints should not be treated as explicit instructions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hint from" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb like 'take', 'get', or 'receive'. It indicates the source from which a subtle suggestion or clue is obtained. As Ludwig AI suggests, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hint from" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates the reception of an indirect suggestion or clue from a specific source. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various contexts. Its frequency is particularly high in news and media, but it also appears in scientific and business domains. When employing "hint from", clarity in identifying the source of the hint is crucial to prevent ambiguity. Related phrases like "clue from" or "suggestion from" can be used for subtle variations in meaning. Overall, understanding the nuances of "hint from" enhances effective communication in both formal and informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clue from

Replaces "hint" with "clue", suggesting a more direct or obvious indication.

suggestion from

Uses "suggestion" instead of "hint", indicating a more explicit recommendation.

indication from

Replaces "hint" with "indication", making the phrase more formal and less subtle.

tip from

Substitutes "hint" with "tip", implying practical advice or inside information.

signal from

Uses "signal" instead of "hint", suggesting a non-verbal or indirect message.

lead from

Replaces "hint" with "lead", implying a direction or path to follow.

inkling from

Substitutes "hint" with "inkling", suggesting a vague or intuitive feeling.

word from

Uses "word" instead of "hint", indicating a direct communication or message.

notion from

Replaces "hint" with "notion", implying an idea or concept derived from a source.

intimation from

Substitutes "hint" with "intimation", making the phrase more formal and suggesting a subtle suggestion.

FAQs

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

You can use "hint from" to indicate that you received a suggestion or clue from a particular source. For example, "I took a "hint from" the locals and dressed more casually."

What can I say instead of "hint from"?

You can use alternatives like "clue from", "suggestion from", or "indication from" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "hint from" in formal writing?

While "hint from" is generally acceptable, in very formal writing, you might consider using a more formal alternative like "intimation from" or "indication from".

What's the difference between "hint from" and "advice from"?

"Hint from" implies a subtle suggestion, while "advice from" indicates a more direct and explicit recommendation. A "hint from" someone might require interpretation, whereas advice is usually straightforward.