Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
politely indicated
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "politely indicated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a manner of communication that is courteous or respectful, often in reference to conveying information or suggestions. Example: "She politely indicated that the meeting time might need to be adjusted to accommodate everyone's schedule."
✓ Grammatically correct
News & Media
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
3 human-written examples
But he politely indicated that the boy go first.
News & Media
Others politely indicated they didn't trust journalists or the Guardian.
News & Media
Last October, Mrs. H. regretfully resigned herself to giving Peter to the London Zoo, because her neighbors had politely indicated that while Peter had been amusing as a youngster, he had reached the age--now 4 when his escapades, such as jumping into perambulators, were distinctly unfunny.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
57 human-written examples
How can a host politely indicate that he'd like the evening to be over?
News & Media
If you receive a response from a coach, politely indicate that you are interested in learning more about the college team.
News & Media
His men opened the rear doors and piled in with their weapons, politely indicating we join them once they were comfortably seated.
News & Media
He said it was probably safe to take Tylenol and politely but firmly indicated it was time for me to go.
News & Media
The road merged into one lane so I was kind of coming across politely and I remember I had indicated, so I wasn't being like an idiot.
News & Media
She called an ambulance, but as soon as they arrived her husband calmed down, politely greeted the paramedics and, indicating to his wife, said, "This woman here has entered my house and is claiming to be my wife.
News & Media
Muhly politely cavils at Adams's suggestion that youth should indicate anger.
News & Media
Merge politely.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "politely indicated", ensure the context aligns with conveying a message in a courteous and non-confrontational manner.
Common error
Avoid using "politely indicated" when a direct command or instruction is more appropriate. The phrase is better suited for subtle suggestions or hints, not for directives.
Source & Trust
95%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "politely indicated" functions as a verb phrase, where 'politely' modifies the verb 'indicated'. According to Ludwig AI, it suggests a courteous manner of conveying information or making a suggestion. The Ludwig examples show its usage in news and media contexts.
Frequent in
News & Media
100%
Less common in
Science
0%
Formal & Business
0%
Social Media
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "politely indicated" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of conveying information or making a suggestion in a courteous manner. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly found in news and media contexts. Although examples are not abundant, the sources using the phrase are authoritative. When writing, it's best practice to use this phrase when subtlety and politeness are important. Avoid using it in situations that call for direct commands. Alternatives like "courteously suggested" or "gently hinted" can be used to achieve the similar effect.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
courteously suggested
Replaces "indicated" with "suggested", emphasizing the gentleness of the communication. Semantic similarity is very high.
gently hinted
Uses "hinted" to imply a subtle suggestion, maintaining politeness. Semantic similarity is very high.
tactfully implied
"Implied" focuses on indirect communication, while "tactfully" ensures it's done sensitively. Semantic similarity is high.
respectfully proposed
Using "proposed" suggests a formal suggestion, emphasizing respect. Semantic similarity is high.
diplomatically conveyed
"Diplomatically" implies skill in handling sensitive situations, making it a more nuanced suggestion. Semantic similarity is high.
subtly signaled
"Signaled" implies a non-verbal or understated form of communication. Semantic similarity is moderate.
gracefully suggested
"Gracefully" adds an element of elegance and smoothness to the suggestion. Semantic similarity is high.
kindly advised
"Advised" denotes giving guidance, with "kindly" adding a gentle tone. Semantic similarity is moderate.
thoughtfully pointed out
"Pointed out" makes it explicit, but "thoughtfully" maintains the courteous aspect. Semantic similarity is moderate.
with gentle persuasion
This conveys the act of influencing someone without being pushy. Semantic similarity is relatively moderate because the sentence structure is different and it suggests an action instead of a single sentence.
FAQs
How can I use "politely indicated" in a sentence?
You can use "politely indicated" to describe a situation where someone is making a subtle suggestion or conveying information with courtesy, for example: "She "politely indicated" that the meeting time might need to be adjusted".
What are some alternatives to "politely indicated"?
Alternatives include "courteously suggested", "gently hinted", or "tactfully implied", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.
Is "politely indicated" formal or informal?
"Politely indicated" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal, suitable for professional or polite social contexts. It's appropriate when you want to maintain a level of decorum.
What is the difference between "politely indicated" and "directly stated"?
"Politely indicated" implies a subtle or indirect communication, whereas "directly stated" means conveying information clearly and explicitly. The former is used to soften the message, while the latter prioritizes clarity.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
95%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested