implying that

USAGE SUMMARY

"implying that" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It conveys the idea that a certain idea is being suggested without being directly stated. For example, you might write, "She gave a knowing look, implying that she knew the answer to the question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Are you implying that analysis isn't for me?" he asked.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But Cameron said Nicholson had apologised, implying that was sufficient.

The Guardian

Implying that work was under way on alternatives to retaining sterling, he said.

The Guardian

Some people, I think, are implying that patriotism comes first.

The Guardian

They also think you're implying that they're stupid.

The Guardian - Opinion

Is she implying that they actually wanted it to happen?

The Guardian - Opinion

He was implying that she didn't matter very much.

The Guardian

Implying that they're better or they're important or they're good.

The Guardian - Film

You're implying that I'm regularly asked to sign a petition.

The New Yorker

"Were you implying that Canadians are wusses?" the interviewer asks.

The New Yorker

I am not implying that an MBA qualification is superfluous.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "implying that" to suggest a connection or conclusion without stating it directly. This can add nuance and sophistication to your writing, allowing the reader to draw their own inferences.

Common error

Avoid using "implying that" when you mean 'inferring that'. "Implying" is what a speaker or writer does, while 'inferring' is what a listener or reader does. For example, a speaker implies, and the audience infers.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "implying that" functions as a subordinating conjunction, connecting a clause that suggests an indirect meaning or conclusion to the main clause. It introduces an inference or a non-explicit statement as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

31%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "implying that" is a versatile phrase used to suggest a meaning indirectly, without explicitly stating it. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it serves as a conjunction to connect a clause of inference to a main clause. It is frequently used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science, and holds a neutral register, making it appropriate for both formal and informal communication. The phrase is considered grammatically correct and, is used very frequently. As such, it is a valuable tool for nuanced and sophisticated writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

suggesting that

Replaces "implying" with a more direct synonym, maintaining the same suggestive connotation.

indicating that

Similar to "implying", but often used when the evidence or observation more strongly hints at something.

hinting that

Emphasizes a more subtle and indirect form of suggestion.

intimating that

A more formal synonym for "implying", suggesting a delicate or subtle communication.

alluding to the fact that

Highlights the act of making an indirect reference, often to something well-known.

leading one to believe that

Focuses on the effect of the statement or action, suggesting a particular conclusion.

giving the impression that

Emphasizes the perception created by the statement or action.

suggesting the idea that

Directly focuses on presenting an idea rather than an implication.

conveying the message that

Highlights the transmission of a specific message, often intentionally.

insinuating that

Suggests something negative or unpleasant in an indirect way.

FAQs

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

Use "implying that" to suggest something without stating it explicitly. For example, "He raised an eyebrow, implying that he doubted my story."

What's a more formal way to say "implying that"?

A more formal alternative to "implying that" is "intimating that", which suggests a more subtle or delicate communication.

Which is correct, "implying that" or "inferring that"?

"Implying that" is what a speaker or writer does, while "inferring that" is what a listener or reader does. Use "implying that" when describing the speaker's intended meaning, and "inferring that" when describing the audience's interpretation.

What are some alternatives to "implying that"?

Alternatives include "suggesting that", "indicating that", or "hinting that", depending on the context and the degree of subtlety you want to convey.