take hints

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take hints" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of understanding or picking up on subtle suggestions or cues from someone. Example: "She didn't directly tell him to leave, but he was able to take hints from her body language."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Some other Texas politicians seemed eager to show that they, too, were not the sort to take hints of martial law lightly.

The New Yorker

Families break up when people take hints you don't intend and miss hints you do intend.

Forbes

If other titles can take hints from what EA are doing here we'll start to see some really good things".

Vice

It's "I love you" just in case you didn't get that - men don't take hints very well, haha!

Huffington Post

I often advise clients that a good rule for relationships is: I don't take hints, (and neither do they).

Huffington Post

If other titles can take hints from what EA are doing here, we'll start to see some really good things".

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Whatever it takes – hints of preferment or threats – they may lose their booty.

The Guardian - Opinion

While we are not totally automated we are taking hints from techmeme.

TechCrunch

Boatbound is trying to forge an "Ahoy Culture" in part by taking hints from Lyft's pink mustaches and fist-bumps.

TechCrunch

Take the hints.

TechCrunch

Don't expect him to take any hints.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "take hints" when you want to suggest someone is perceptive or should be perceptive to subtle cues, rather than direct instructions.

Common error

Be mindful that not everyone is adept at understanding indirect communication. Direct and clear communication is often more effective than relying on someone to "take hints", especially in professional or critical situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take hints" functions as a verb phrase indicating the ability to understand or recognize subtle cues, suggestions, or unspoken messages. Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Wiki

24%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Science

4%

Social Media

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "take hints" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe understanding subtle cues or suggestions. As Ludwig confirms, it is usable in written English across various contexts, though it's essential to consider the formality of the situation. While predominantly found in News & Media and Wiki content, it's crucial to ensure clarity in communication and avoid relying solely on indirect cues, especially in professional settings. Alternatives like "understand implications" or "perceive subtle cues" may be more suitable for formal contexts. Ultimately, effective communication involves balancing directness with the ability to "take hints" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get the message

A more informal way of saying "understand the hint".

get the drift

Implies a general understanding of the overall meaning or intention.

grasp suggestions

Similar to "take hints" but emphasizes understanding the suggestion being made.

catch on

Suggests a sudden understanding after a period of confusion or unawareness.

read between the lines

Focuses on understanding the unsaid or implied part of a message.

perceive subtle cues

Highlights the act of noticing and interpreting understated signals.

recognize indirect communication

Emphasizes the acknowledgement of communication that is not direct.

understand implications

Focuses more on grasping the underlying meaning rather than simply recognizing a signal.

infer implicit meanings

Stresses the deduction of meaning that is suggested but not plainly expressed.

decipher unspoken messages

Focuses on interpreting messages that are not explicitly stated.

FAQs

How can I improve my ability to "take hints"?

Enhance your observation skills, pay attention to non-verbal cues, and practice active listening to better "pick up on cues" and understand indirect communication.

Is "take hints" appropriate in formal communication?

While "take hints" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as informal. In formal contexts, consider using phrases like "understand implications" or "perceive subtle cues" for a more professional tone.

What does it mean when someone says, "He can't take a hint"?

It typically means that the person is unable or unwilling to understand subtle suggestions or indirect communication, requiring clearer, more direct instructions.

When should I use direct communication instead of expecting someone to "take hints"?

Use direct communication when clarity is crucial, in time-sensitive situations, or when dealing with individuals who may not be familiar with the context or cultural nuances.