indirectly suggested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indirectly suggested" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that is implied or hinted at without being stated directly. Example: "The author's tone indirectly suggested that the character was unhappy with their situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

Martin Schulz, the president of the European parliament, likened the NSA to the Soviet-era KGB and indirectly suggested a delay in the talks.

The Guardian

You cite the example of the "row over a local council in Flanders that wants to ban toddlers from its playgrounds if they do not understand Dutch" and you indirectly suggested this was a case of "maddening about language".

The Economist

The sign thus indirectly suggested a necessity of operative plan from the beginning.

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

Most commonly, fistulization is indirectly suggested by bowel-to-bladder adherence, focal bladder mural thickening and/or intraluminal air.

Insights into Imaging

One of the first findings that, although indirectly, suggested the role of TRP channels in cluster headache and migraine was represented by the protective effect of the topical, desensitizing application of capsaicin to the patient nasal mucosa [79, 80].

The Journal of Headache and Pain

But when the pregnant mice were treated with TiO2 NPs, their uterine weights were lowered with smaller fetuses, which indirectly suggested that the TiO2 NPs could induce fetal resorption and retard fetal growth via intravenous injection [67].

Nanoscale Research Letters

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

Margaret Wheatley, author of Leadership and the New Science, indirectly suggests how we could put self-leadership into practice today.

The Guardian

So did the Bush administration, which finally abandoned its hands-off stance and intervened, indirectly suggesting that Mr. Sharon had gone too far.

The New York Times

By turns mournful, comic, and triumphant, the dance indirectly suggests the composer's emotional wounds and recovery following the First World War.

The New Yorker

It was fitting, he indirectly suggests, for Piaf to fall for a boxer, because this ferocious flyweight is much more of a pugilist than he is.

The Guardian - Film

The report says the Romanian government may not understand how a pluralist democracy works, indirectly suggesting the country is not fit to be an EU member.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indirectly suggested" when you want to convey that an idea was communicated subtly, without being explicitly stated. This is particularly useful in academic writing and professional communication where nuance is important.

Common error

Avoid using "indirectly suggested" when a direct statement would be clearer and more effective. Overusing indirect language can make your writing seem evasive or unclear. Choose directness when clarity is paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indirectly suggested" functions as a verb phrase, indicating a subtle form of communication. It describes the action of hinting at something without explicitly stating it, a function supported by Ludwig AI and the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

62%

News & Media

27%

Formal & Business

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "indirectly suggested" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate that something has been hinted at without being explicitly stated. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in science, news, and formal business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the context warrants a subtle approach and that directness would be inappropriate or less effective. Be mindful of overuse, opting for direct statements when clarity is paramount. Consider alternatives such as "implied" or "hinted at" for variety and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implied

Focuses on the act of hinting at something without explicitly stating it.

hinted at

Emphasizes a subtle suggestion or clue.

intimated

Suggests a delicate or subtle communication.

alluded to

Indicates a reference to something without direct mention.

gave the impression

Highlights the creation of a particular feeling or idea in someone's mind.

left the implication

Focuses on the lingering suggestion or unspoken conclusion.

seemed to indicate

Emphasizes the appearance or impression of suggesting something.

subtly proposed

Highlights the delicacy and carefulness with which the suggestion was made.

tacitly communicated

Focuses on the unspoken or implicit nature of the communication.

insinuated

Suggests something unpleasant or questionable in an indirect way.

FAQs

What does "indirectly suggested" mean?

The phrase "indirectly suggested" means that something was hinted at or implied, but not stated explicitly. It implies a subtle or roundabout way of conveying an idea or information.

How can I use "indirectly suggested" in a sentence?

You can use "indirectly suggested" to describe how someone conveyed information without being direct. For example, "His comments "indirectly suggested" he was unhappy with the decision."

What are some alternatives to "indirectly suggested"?

Alternatives to "indirectly suggested" include "implied", "hinted at", or "intimated". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "indirectly suggested" and "directly stated"?

"Indirectly suggested" implies a subtle or implicit communication, while "directly stated" means the information was conveyed explicitly and without ambiguity. If something is "directly stated", there is no room for interpretation.