Intimating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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intimating

[ˈɪntɪˌmeɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

communication

To make known indirectly; hint or imply.

Synonyms

hint, imply, insinuate, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intimating	Used in formal or literary contexts to subtly convey or make something known without stating it explicitly. Often used in delicate or sensitive situations. She was intemating that there might be changes in the company's management soon. His tone was intimating disapproval, though he didn't say anything directly.
suggest	Used in a variety of contexts, both formal and informal, to propose an idea or give an indirect recommendation. I suggest we take a break. The evidence suggests that this theory is correct.
imply	Used in both formal and informal contexts to indirectly state or suggest something. Often involves suggesting something without saying it outright. His words implied that he wasn't happy with the decision. The results imply that more research is needed.
hint	Commonly used in casual or informal settings when you want to give someone a subtle clue or piece of information. She dropped a hint about the surprise party. I tried to give him a hint that he was talking too loudly.
insinuate	Typically used in more negative or critical contexts where someone implies something bad or derogatory in a subtle or sneaky manner. He insinuated that she got the job through favoritism. Are you insinuating that I don't work hard enough?

Examples of usage

She intimated that she would like to leave early.
He intimated his disapproval through a raised eyebrow.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

relationship

To communicate with a hint or suggestion.

Synonyms

hint, imply, insinuate, suggest.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
hint	Used to subtly indicate or suggest something without stating it directly. It is often used in everyday conversation to provide clues. She gave him a hint that she wanted a new necklace for her birthday The teacher hinted that there might be a surprise quiz tomorrow
suggest	Used to recommend or propose something in a way that is usually clear but not forceful. It is commonly used in both professional and casual conversations. I suggest we take a break and resume our discussion after lunch The doctor suggested a new treatment plan
imply	Used when suggesting or indicating something indirectly through what one says or does. It is often used in formal or neutral contexts. His tone of voice implied that he was not happy with the decision The study implies a link between diet and health
insinuate	Used to suggest something bad or unpleasant in an indirect and often subtle way. It usually has a negative connotation. He was insinuating that she was lying about the incident The article insinuated that the politician was involved in the scandal

Examples of usage

She intimated her feelings for him with a shy smile.
He intimated his interest in the project by asking questions.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

threat

To announce something indirectly as a threat.

Synonyms

indicate, threaten, warn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
intimating	Used when giving a subtle or indirect hint about something without explicitly stating it. She kept intimating that she knew more than she was letting on He was intimating that he might be interested in the job
threaten	Used in situations where there is a suggestion of harm or danger if certain conditions are not met; has a negative connotation. The manager threatened to fire anyone caught stealing The dark clouds threaten a heavy storm
warn	Used to caution someone about potential danger or to advise them to take preventive measures. She warned her children not to talk to strangers The doctor warned him about the risks of smoking
indicate	Appropriate when pointing out or showing something in a clear and straightforward manner. The sign indicates the direction to the nearest subway station The data indicates a significant increase in sales this quarter

Examples of usage

He intimated that he would take legal action if necessary.
She intimated that there would be consequences for his actions.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Literature

In novels, characters often intimate their true feelings through actions or body language rather than words, creating deeper emotional connections.
Poets commonly use intimating as a technique to evoke feelings without directly stating emotions, allowing readers to interpret meanings.
Famous authors, like James Joyce and Virginia Woolf, employed introspective writing that often intimates complex human thoughts indirectly.

Psychology

Non-verbal cues often intimate our feelings and thoughts more powerfully than words, influencing interpersonal communication.
Intimating can create bonds between people, as sharing hints can foster trust and a sense of intimacy in relationships.
Studies indicate that people often prefer indirect communication in sensitive contexts, interpreting subtler messages as more polite.

Pop Culture

Many thriller films use the technique of intimating future outcomes to build suspense, keeping audiences guessing.
In pop music, artists often intimate personal stories through metaphorical lyrics, allowing listeners to derive personal meanings.
Reality TV often relies on intimation to reveal relationships and tensions, letting viewers decipher underlying narratives.

Origin of 'intimating'

Main points about word origin

The word originates from the Latin word 'intimare', which means 'to make known' or 'to announce'.
The prefix 'in-' means 'within', and 'timare' relates to making something known, emphasizing the idea of sharing information from within.
First recorded use in English was in the late 15th century, showing that the concept of subtle communication has a long history.

The word 'intimating' comes from the verb 'intimate', which has its origins in the Latin word 'intimare', meaning 'to make known'. Over time, the word has evolved to represent the act of hinting or implying something indirectly. The usage of 'intimating' in English language dates back to the 17th century, and it has remained a popular term in communication and relationships.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,767, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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22764 uncertainly
22765 myopia
22766 potion
22767 intimating
22768 hydrogenated
22769 trinkets
22770 japonica
...