hint that

USAGE SUMMARY

"hint that" is a perfectly valid phrase in written English.
You can use it to suggest or imply something in a subtle way. For example, "She gave me a knowing look, hinting that she had something more to say."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

(Hint: That does not include Mr. Obama).

The New York Times

(Hint: That one is called "Cannibalism in the Canyon").

The New York Times - Arts

Hint: That means start now.

Forbes

Did Obama Just Hint That He's a Secret Avicii Fan?

Vice

It may hint that HFS annoyed females more than males.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

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

Cardiovascular Diabetology

There was no hint that they objected".

The New Yorker

Falling backlogs hint that sales could plunge.

The New York Times

We see no hint that he is working toward one.

The New York Times

"There's no hint that coal has any disadvantages".

The New York Times

I have heard them hint that in dozens of interviews.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "suggest", "imply", or "intimate" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

While "hint that" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal or academic writing can make your arguments seem weak or speculative. Opt for more direct language when presenting evidence or conclusions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hint that" functions as a verbal phrase introducing a subordinate clause. It indicates a suggestion or implication, often used to convey information indirectly. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

33%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "hint that" is a common and grammatically sound way to subtly suggest something without explicitly stating it. Ludwig AI validates its frequent use across various contexts, especially in News & Media and Scientific writing. While versatile, remember that synonyms like "suggest that" or "imply that" can add nuance. Be mindful of overuse in formal contexts, where direct language is often preferred. "Hint that" serves as a valuable tool for persuasive or sensitive communication, encouraging the audience to draw their own conclusions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imply that

This alternative suggests a slightly stronger level of indirect communication compared to "hint that".

suggest that

Similar to "hint that", but can also be used for more direct suggestions depending on context.

intimate that

More formal and nuanced, suggesting a delicate or subtle communication.

insinuate that

This implies a negative or dubious undertone in the suggestion.

allude to

Refers to something indirectly, often relying on shared knowledge.

give the impression that

Focuses on the perception created rather than the intention to communicate something directly.

lead someone to believe

Highlights the effect of the suggestion on the listener or reader.

drop a hint

Emphasizes the subtlety and indirectness of the suggestion.

leave a clue

Suggests that providing indirect information or evidence.

signal that

Indicates a clear but often unspoken indication of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "hint that" to subtly suggest something without directly stating it. For example, "Her smile seemed to "hint that" she knew more than she was letting on."

What are some alternatives to "hint that"?

Alternatives to "hint that" include "suggest that", "imply that", and "intimate that". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

While grammatically correct, using "hint that" too frequently in formal writing might weaken your argument. Consider using more direct language to express your points if the context allows.

What's the difference between "hint that" and "imply that"?

"Hint that" suggests a more subtle and indirect communication, while "imply that" often involves a slightly stronger, though still indirect, suggestion. The choice depends on the degree of subtlety you wish to convey.