intimation 🔊
Meaning of intimation
An indication or hint, often subtle or indirect, of something.
Key Difference
Intimation typically conveys a subtle or indirect suggestion, unlike more direct synonyms like 'announcement' or 'declaration'.
Example of intimation
- The dark clouds were an intimation of the approaching storm.
- Her quiet sigh was the first intimation of her disappointment.
Synonyms
hint 🔊
Meaning of hint
A slight or indirect indication or suggestion.
Key Difference
A hint is often more deliberate than an intimation, which can be unintentional.
Example of hint
- He dropped a hint about the surprise party.
- The detective noticed a hint of nervousness in the suspect's voice.
suggestion 🔊
Meaning of suggestion
An idea or proposal put forward for consideration.
Key Difference
A suggestion is more explicit and actionable, while an intimation is subtler.
Example of suggestion
- She made a suggestion to improve the workflow.
- The artist's use of light gives a suggestion of movement.
inkling 🔊
Meaning of inkling
A slight knowledge or suspicion; a vague idea.
Key Difference
An inkling refers to a faint understanding, whereas an intimation is an external hint.
Example of inkling
- I had an inkling that he was planning something special.
- There was no inkling of the disaster that would follow.
clue 🔊
Meaning of clue
A piece of evidence or information used in solving a problem or mystery.
Key Difference
A clue is more concrete and often part of a larger puzzle, unlike an intimation.
Example of clue
- The fingerprints were a crucial clue in the investigation.
- His hesitation gave me a clue that he was hiding something.
implication 🔊
Meaning of implication
The conclusion that can be drawn from something, although it is not explicitly stated.
Key Difference
An implication is a logical consequence, while an intimation is a subtle hint.
Example of implication
- The implication of his statement was that he no longer supported the project.
- Her silence had serious implications for the team's morale.
whisper 🔊
Meaning of whisper
A soft or confidential tone of voice; a rumor or piece of gossip.
Key Difference
A whisper is often auditory or rumor-based, while an intimation can be non-verbal.
Example of whisper
- The whisper of the wind through the trees was calming.
- There was a whisper among the staff about impending layoffs.
allusion 🔊
Meaning of allusion
An indirect or passing reference.
Key Difference
An allusion is a reference, often literary, while an intimation is a hint or suggestion.
Example of allusion
- The poem contains an allusion to Greek mythology.
- His speech included an allusion to the company's founding principles.
indication 🔊
Meaning of indication
A sign or piece of information that points to something.
Key Difference
An indication is more direct and observable than an intimation.
Example of indication
- The rise in temperature was an indication of the approaching summer.
- Her smile was an indication of her approval.
signal 🔊
Meaning of signal
A gesture, action, or sound used to convey information or instructions.
Key Difference
A signal is deliberate and clear, whereas an intimation is subtle and indirect.
Example of signal
- The traffic signal turned red, and the cars stopped.
- She gave a signal to begin the presentation.
Conclusion
- Intimation is best used when referring to subtle or indirect hints, often unintentional.
- Hint can be used when the suggestion is slightly more deliberate but still not explicit.
- Suggestion is appropriate when proposing an idea or action more directly.
- Inkling is fitting when describing a vague suspicion or faint understanding.
- Clue should be used in contexts involving evidence or solving mysteries.
- Implication is suitable for logical consequences drawn from statements or actions.
- Whisper works well for auditory hints or rumors.
- Allusion is ideal for indirect references, especially in literary or artistic contexts.
- Indication is the right choice for more direct signs or pointers.
- Signal is best for clear and deliberate gestures or actions conveying information.