intimate that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "intimate that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to suggest or imply something indirectly, often in a formal context. Example: "The report seems to intimate that there may be underlying issues affecting productivity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is a familiar Irish talkiness in her work — eloquent, heated, intimate — that is combined with a bitter reticence akin to that of Harold Pinter's dramas.

The New Yorker

More deeply, much queasiness about storing DNA profiles is based on a vague perception that they contain something ineffably "intimate" that can't, so needn't, be explained.

The Guardian - Opinion

However, co-founder Jeff Sinclair did intimate that was on his list of prized possibilities.

TechCrunch

The surroundings are so intimate that every moment is shared.

Independent

Instead, they intimate that they are naturally selected to lead.

The New York Times

He started it and made her feel so intimate that it seemed all right.

The New Yorker

He does intimate that he would like some cigars or cigarettes.

The New Yorker

And appears to intimate that she would change her online habits after the experiment.

Independent

It's very moving but, at times, so intimate that it feels intrusive.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

To forbid visits is to intimate that all members are corrupt, he said.

The New York Times - Sports

The pictures were so intimate that you could almost smell them.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "intimate that" when you want to suggest something subtly or indirectly, avoiding a direct statement. It adds a layer of nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "intimate that" in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler synonyms like "suggest" or "imply" for a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intimate that" primarily functions as a verb phrase introducing a subordinate clause. It serves to subtly suggest or imply information without explicitly stating it. As Ludwig AI points out, the examples show usage in news articles, scientific publications, and literary contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intimate that" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that suggests something indirectly, often in formal contexts. Ludwig AI indicates that while acceptable, the phrase is not as common as simpler alternatives like "suggest that" or "imply that". It's most frequently encountered in news, media, and scientific writing, adding a layer of nuance. When using this phrase, consider the context and audience, opting for simpler alternatives in informal settings. This guidance will help ensure your writing is both precise and appropriate for the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imply that

Direct synonym, suggesting a slightly more straightforward implication.

suggest that

A more general term for indicating something without stating it explicitly.

hint that

Indicates a more subtle or indirect suggestion.

insinuate that

Often carries a negative connotation, suggesting something unpleasant or dubious.

indicate that

A more neutral and factual way of pointing something out.

allude to

Implies a reference to something indirectly or vaguely.

give the impression that

Focuses on the perception created rather than the direct statement.

lead one to believe

Suggests that someone is being influenced to think a certain way.

convey the idea that

Highlights the communication of an idea without explicit declaration.

leave one to infer

Emphasizes the listener or reader drawing their own conclusions.

FAQs

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

You can use "intimate that" to suggest something indirectly. For example, "The evidence seems to "intimate that" the project is behind schedule".

What's the difference between "intimate that" and "suggest that"?

"Intimate that" is a more formal way of saying "suggest that". "Intimate" implies a more subtle or indirect suggestion than "suggest".

Which is more appropriate, "intimate that" or "imply that"?

Both "intimate that" and "imply that" can be used to suggest something indirectly. "Intimate" tends to be slightly more formal and subtle, while "imply" is more direct.

What are some alternatives to using "intimate that" in my writing?

Alternatives include "suggest that", "imply that", "hint that", or "indicate that", depending on the nuance you want to convey.