it was hinted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it was hinted" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to something that was suggested or implied indirectly, rather than stated outright. Example: "During the meeting, it was hinted that there might be changes to the project timeline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It was hinted that efforts to build Column could now continue overseas.

Independent

It was hinted that he was actually in league with them.

Independent

It was hinted that in return the heresy charges against him would be dropped.

The New Yorker

It was hinted at several times that he would be better off leaving the country, but he decided to stay.

The Guardian

At three, she was taken to a neurologist, and the diagnosis of autism was made; it was hinted that lifelong institutionalization would probably be necessary.

The New Yorker

Dennis Hastert may have kept a secret for more than forty years, but, once it was hinted at, it lasted less than a day.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

You know it, I know it, even he (it's hinted) is beginning to know it.

The Guardian - Books

They may even be genetically responsible (it is hinted) for their children's addictions.

The New York Times

This too is one of the story's unsurprising aspects, and it is hinted at very early.

The New York Times - Books

It is hinted at in the show through several of the designer Peter de Sève's drawings of the movies' fiercer characters.

The New York Times

In fact, it's hinted at premium features for some time.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience when using "it was hinted". Ensure they are likely to understand the implied meaning, as overuse or obscure hints can lead to confusion.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "it was hinted" to convey critical information. Ensure the hint is followed by sufficient context or evidence to allow the reader to reasonably infer the intended meaning. Otherwise, your message might be lost.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it was hinted" functions as a passive construction used to indicate that something was suggested or implied indirectly. Ludwig's examples show it commonly introduces information that isn't explicitly stated, leaving room for interpretation or speculation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "it was hinted" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate that information has been conveyed indirectly. Analysis of various sources reveals that the phrase is frequently used in news and media contexts to introduce nuanced information without making explicit claims. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase, suggesting alternatives like "it was suggested" or "it was implied" for similar meanings. When using this phrase, remember to provide adequate context to ensure your audience correctly understands the implied meaning. This phrase is a valuable tool for any writer who needs to convey information tactfully or subtly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it was suggested

Direct replacement of "hinted" with "suggested", indicating a slightly more explicit form of indirect communication.

it was implied

"Implied" focuses on the message being understood without direct statement.

it was intimated

"Intimated" suggests a subtle and delicate way of conveying information.

it was alluded to

"Alluded to" indicates a reference made indirectly or casually.

it was understood

Focuses on the common understanding rather than the act of hinting.

it was rumored

Emphasizes that the information is based on unofficial sources.

it was speculated

Indicates that the information is based on conjecture or guesswork.

there was a suggestion

Rephrases the sentence structure while keeping the core meaning of a suggestion.

a clue was given

Shifts the focus to a clue being provided rather than a hint being made.

the subtext was

Highlights the underlying, unstated meaning.

FAQs

How can I use "it was hinted" in a sentence?

Use "it was hinted" to indicate that something was suggested indirectly, rather than stated explicitly. For example, "During the negotiations, "it was hinted" that concessions might be necessary".

What can I say instead of "it was hinted"?

You can use alternatives like "it was suggested", "it was implied", or "it was intimated" depending on the context.

Is "it was hinted at" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it was hinted at" is grammatically correct, although ""it was hinted"" is more concise. The addition of "at" doesn't change the meaning significantly, but it can sometimes sound less formal.

What is the difference between "it was hinted" and "it was suggested"?

While both convey indirect communication, ""it was hinted"" implies a more subtle or veiled suggestion, whereas "it was suggested" can be a more direct, though still indirect, communication.