unspoken indication

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unspoken indication" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a suggestion or hint that is implied rather than explicitly stated. Example: "Her silence was an unspoken indication that she was not pleased with the decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some authors consider the use of natural substances as ingredients in personal care products since antiquity as unspoken indication for their safety [11].

Environmental Sciences Europe

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

This was the first of many unspoken indications that he was ready to go home, please, like now.

The New Yorker

A. It was unspoken.

The New York Times

"He has that unspoken quality".

The New York Times - Sports

And left unspoken.

The Economist

Many truths are unspoken.

The New York Times

There was this unspoken thing.

The New York Times - Arts

"Very often stuff goes unspoken.

The New York Times

An unspoken one.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

One word went unspoken: Romney.

The New York Times

The question lingers, unspoken, here.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "unspoken indication" when you want to emphasize that something is being communicated indirectly or subtly, rather than explicitly stated. It's useful in contexts where direct communication is avoided for various reasons, such as politeness or sensitivity.

Common error

While "unspoken indication" is acceptable, in very formal or technical writing, consider using more precise terms like "implicit suggestion" or "inferred meaning" to avoid any ambiguity. Over-relying on "unspoken" can make your writing seem vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unspoken indication" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes something that serves as a sign or signal, but is not explicitly communicated through words. Ludwig shows that this phrase is often used to convey subtleties in communication.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unspoken indication" refers to a subtle hint or suggestion that isn't explicitly stated. While grammatically correct, its usage is relatively rare, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's primarily found in news and scientific contexts and is used to highlight indirect communication. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable. When aiming for precision in formal writing, consider alternatives like "implicit suggestion" or "tacit implication".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

implicit suggestion

Focuses on the implied nature of the suggestion rather than an overt statement.

tacit implication

Highlights the understood, but not directly expressed, consequence.

subtle signal

Emphasizes the delicate and indirect nature of the communication.

implied message

Highlights that the message is communicated indirectly.

veiled hint

Focuses on the concealed or disguised nature of the hint.

unarticulated clue

Emphasizes that the clue is not directly spoken or expressed.

inferred meaning

Highlights the meaning that is deduced or concluded from the context.

understood cue

Focuses on the shared understanding of a non-verbal or indirect prompt.

unexpressed sentiment

Focuses on the feeling or opinion that is not verbally communicated.

unstated premise

Highlights the underlying assumption that is not explicitly mentioned.

FAQs

What does "unspoken indication" mean?

The phrase "unspoken indication" refers to a signal, hint, or suggestion that is communicated indirectly, without being explicitly stated.

How can I use "unspoken indication" in a sentence?

You can use "unspoken indication" to describe situations where communication is subtle or implied. For example, "Her silence was an "unspoken indication" that she disagreed with the proposal."

What are some alternatives to "unspoken indication"?

Some alternatives to "unspoken indication" include "implicit suggestion", "tacit implication", or "subtle signal", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "unspoken indication" formal or informal?

"Unspoken indication" is generally suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but in highly technical or academic writing, more precise terms like "implicit suggestion" or "inferred meaning" might be preferred.