hints at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hints at" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to indicate that something implies or suggests something else without being explicit about it. For example, "The way he said goodbye hinted at sadness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That hints at continuity.

The Economist

History hints at his motivation.

The Economist

The photograph hints at it.

The Guardian - Film

It hints at dark consequences.

The Economist

It hints at laziness".

The Guardian

In public, he hints at legislation.

The Economist

These are questions Ngai only hints at.

The New York Times - Books

The moment hints at gratitude and reunion.

The New Yorker

Your bio hints at an interesting life.

The New York Times

Watman hints at some grand themes.

The New York Times - Books

The list also hints at intergalactic aspirations.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hints at" when you want to subtly suggest something without explicitly stating it. It's effective for adding nuance and encouraging interpretation.

Common error

Avoid using "hints at" excessively in formal or academic writing where direct and explicit statements are preferred. Opt for more direct verbs like "indicates" or "suggests" to maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hints at" functions as a verb phrase used to indicate that something suggests something else indirectly. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hints at" serves as a valuable linguistic tool for suggesting information indirectly. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and commonly employed across various domains. Predominantly found in news and media, "hints at" invites audiences to infer meaning from subtle clues. For more formal contexts, alternatives like "suggests" or "indicates" may be preferable. Remember, "hints at" adds a layer of nuance, making it ideal for situations where explicit statements are not necessary or desired. With a strong presence in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian, its reliable and versatile nature is confirmed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggests

Direct synonym; focuses on a more straightforward indication.

implies

Highlights a more subtle and indirect indication.

alludes to

Emphasizes an indirect reference, often to something well-known.

intimates

Conveys a delicate or subtle suggestion.

points to

Indicates a direction or connection that is not immediately obvious.

signals

Highlights a clear but perhaps non-explicit indicator.

indicates

Offers a more formal and direct suggestion or evidence.

gives the impression of

Focuses on the perceived effect or feeling created.

leads one to believe

Emphasizes the suggestive influence on one's belief.

leaves room for speculation

Highlights the open-ended and uncertain nature of the suggestion.

FAQs

How can I use "hints at" in a sentence?

Use "hints at" when you want to imply something without stating it directly. For example, "His vague response "hints at" a lack of commitment."

What's a more formal alternative to "hints at"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "suggests", "indicates", or "implies" for a more direct and professional tone.

What does it mean when something "hints at" something else?

When something ""hints at"" something, it suggests it indirectly, without being explicit. It implies a possible outcome, connection, or idea.

Which is correct, "hints at" or "hint at"?

"Hints at" is correct when the subject is singular or third-person singular. "Hint at" is correct when the subject is plural or includes pronouns like I, we, you, or they.