least implication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "least implication" is not commonly used in written English and may not convey a clear meaning.
It could be used in contexts discussing minimal effects or consequences, but it may require additional context for clarity. Example: "The least implication of his actions was that he might not be trusted in the future."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Kusama herself, delighted by her escalating auction prices but paranoid about the least implication of indebtedness to any other artist, has retreated ever further into gurulike ambiguities.

The New York Times - Style

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

A steady rhythmic pulse, or at least the implication of one, is nearly omnipresent.

The New York Times - Arts

Even the international lawyers have, at least by implication, begun to feel uneasy.

The Economist

She compensates for her cloying name by channeling the voice (and therefore, at least by implication, the sensibility) of Sarah Silverman.

The New York Times

It's perhaps not worth starting to unpack how much is wrong with that idea (not least the implication that black people cannot possibly be rich).

The Guardian - Opinion

Sound isn't a sensation usually associated with manuscript displays, but it's ever present, at least by implication, in this one.

The New York Times - Arts

"When we allow a person on an installation," Mr. Molino said, "there is at least the implication that we have sanctioned your presence".

The New York Times

"Enhancing one's resume," Judge Parker wrote, "is less sinister than the treacherous motive the government, at least by implication, ascribed to Dr. Lee at the end of last year".

The New York Times

The compost, however, was produced by the prison on Rikers Island, and so, at least by implication, comes with an unpure human component that Earth Art didn't have, or at least didn't call attention to.

The New York Times

McMurdo was also suggesting "at least by implication, that I may be biased in relation to the substantive merits of the determination of the application for my recusal for bias".

The Guardian

Writing later in a decision releasing Dr. Lee, he said, "Enhancing one's resume is less sinister than the treacherous motive the government, at least by implication, ascribed to Dr. Lee at the end of last year".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity, consider rephrasing "least implication" with more direct terms like "minimal consequence" or "slightest suggestion" if the subtlety isn't crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "least implication" when the actual consequences are more significant. This can mislead the reader about the true impact of the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "least implication" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a minimal consequence or a subtle suggestion arising from a particular situation or action. This is supported by the examples provided by Ludwig, where it is generally preceded by prepositions or articles.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "least implication" is a phrase used to denote the slightest or most minimal consequence or suggestion stemming from a situation. Ludwig AI indicates that while grammatically acceptable, it is not a commonly used phrase. Its strength lies in conveying subtlety and precision, appearing most frequently in news, scientific, and formal business contexts. When writing, ensure the minimal nature is warranted and clearly defined, perhaps opting for stronger, more direct alternatives like "minimal consequence" or "slightest suggestion" for enhanced clarity. Avoid overstating the minimal nature to maintain accuracy. Overall, while correct, "least implication" requires careful contextualization to be effectively understood.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

minimal consequence

Replaces "implication" with a more direct term, focusing on the result of an action.

slightest suggestion

Emphasizes the subtle nature of the hint or indication.

smallest indication

Highlights the barely perceptible sign or signal.

faintest hint

Focuses on the subtle and indirect nature of the suggestion.

minor ramification

Uses a more formal term for consequence, suggesting a small impact.

negligible effect

Indicates an impact so small it's almost non-existent.

subtle undertone

Highlights an underlying and delicate suggestion or meaning.

minimal insinuation

Focuses on indirect and often negative suggestion, but to a minimal degree.

lowest degree of involvement

Shifts the focus to participation or connection, but at a minimum level.

remotest possibility

Emphasizes the unlikelihood and distance of a potential outcome.

FAQs

How can I use "least implication" in a sentence?

You can use "least implication" to describe a situation where the slightest suggestion or consequence is being considered. For instance, "The least implication of his actions was that he might be seen as untrustworthy".

What's a good alternative to "least implication"?

Alternatives include "minimal consequence", "slightest suggestion", or "smallest indication", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "least implication" formal or informal?

"Least implication" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it tends to appear more often in analytical or descriptive writing. Be mindful of your audience when deciding if a simpler phrase would be more effective.

What is the difference between "least implication" and "strongest implication"?

"Least implication" refers to the smallest or most subtle suggestion, while "strongest implication" indicates the most obvious or forceful conclusion that can be drawn.