which suggested

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "which suggested" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to introduce a clause that provides additional information or clarification about something that was previously mentioned. Example: "The study revealed several key findings, which suggested a need for further research in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

My doctor saw two sacs, which suggested fraternal twins.

The New York Times - Magazine

There was comfort in his words, which suggested routine, custom.

The New Yorker

Then came Cam'ron's verse, which suggested a gentler seduction.

The New York Times - Arts

McIlroy was asked about his body language, which suggested vexation.

The New York Times

All of which suggested there was unfinished business.

The New York Times

The negotiating team was the same, which suggested continuity.

The Economist

No matching knife was found, which suggested that someone other than Mr. Tankleff had taken it.

The New York Times

Which suggested to him that the passer was the maker, a daredevil, a one-timer.

The New York Times

Which suggested, Pitney said, that the candidate was not in fact courting black voters.

The Guardian

F.P. had been bombing since 1940, which suggested that he was now middle-aged.

The New Yorker

It was designed by Harrison & Abramovitz, and had furniture by Paul McCobb, which suggested mushrooms.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "which suggested" to introduce a clause that provides a logical inference or conclusion based on previously stated information. This helps maintain a clear cause-and-effect relationship in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "which suggested" when the clause it introduces is essential to the meaning of the sentence (restrictive clause). In such cases, use "that suggested" instead. "Which" is generally used for non-restrictive clauses that add extra, non-essential information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "which suggested" functions as a relative clause, specifically introducing a non-restrictive clause that provides additional information or an inference based on the preceding part of the sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "which suggested" is a versatile phrase used to introduce non-restrictive clauses that infer or imply something based on preceding information. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is commonly found in journalistic and scientific writing. When using this phrase, ensure correct comma usage and consider alternatives like "which indicated" or "that implied" for subtle shifts in meaning. Avoiding misuse in restrictive clauses is crucial. By following these guidelines, you can enhance the clarity and logical flow of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

that indicated

Highlights the role of the suggestion as a sign or signal.

that seemed to indicate

Emphasizes the appearance or perception of indication, adding a degree of uncertainty.

that implied

Focuses on the indirect communication or hinting nature of the suggestion.

that inferred

Highlights the drawing of a conclusion from the information presented.

that pointed towards

Uses a directional metaphor to indicate the suggestion's influence.

that hinted at

Highlights the subtle and indirect nature of the suggestion.

that led to believe

Emphasizes the persuasive effect of the suggestion on forming a belief.

that gave the impression

Stresses the subjective feeling or perception created by the suggestion.

that alluded to

Focuses on an indirect reference or a subtle connection made by the suggestion.

that intimated

Stresses the subtle communication of the suggestion, often in a delicate manner.

FAQs

How do I use "which suggested" in a sentence?

Use "which suggested" to introduce a non-essential clause that provides an inference or implication based on the preceding information. For example, "The data showed a significant increase in sales, "which suggested" a successful marketing campaign."

What are some alternatives to "which suggested"?

Alternatives include phrases like "which indicated", "which implied", or "that led to believe", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "which suggested" and "that suggested"?

"Which suggested" introduces a non-restrictive clause, adding extra information, while "that suggested" introduces a restrictive clause, essential for understanding the sentence's core meaning. Using "which" implies the clause is parenthetical and could be removed without changing the sentence's essential meaning.

Is it always necessary to use a comma before "which suggested"?

Yes, a comma is typically required before "which suggested" because it introduces a non-restrictive (or nonessential) clause. The comma indicates that the information is additional and not crucial to the sentence's main meaning.