Intimation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฌ
intimation
[หษชntษชหmeษชสษn ]
Definitions
communication
An indication or hint; a suggestion or insinuation.
Synonyms
hint, insinuation, suggestion.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intimation |
Use this in formal settings to refer to subtle or indirect communication, like making someone aware of something without expressing it directly.
|
| hint |
This is suitable for everyday or informal use when you want to suggest something in a gentle or indirect way.
|
| suggestion |
Best used when giving advice, ideas, or recommendations in a neutral or positive manner, suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
|
| insinuation |
Typically used in negative contexts to describe a subtle or indirect suggestion that usually carries a malicious or disapproving connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She gave me an intimation that she wanted to leave.
- He subtly dropped an intimation that he was unhappy with the situation.
law
A formal notification or warning, especially one given in a legal context.
Synonyms
notice, notification, warning.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| intimation |
Useful in formal or legal settings to denote a subtle or indirect suggestion or hint without explicit detail.
|
| notification |
Common in digital communication and formal contexts to refer to an official announcement or alert, typically in written form.
|
| warning |
Used to caution someone about potential danger or to signal that something bad might happen. Can carry a negative connotation.
|
| notice |
Typically used in formal or official situations to inform someone about something important or required.
|
Examples of usage
- The intimation was sent to the defendant's lawyer.
- The intimation of legal action caused the company to reconsider their position.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, authors often use intimations to develop themes and foreshadow events, allowing readers to sense what might happen next.
- Famous writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce were known for using intimations in their complex narrative styles.
Psychology
- Intimation plays a role in nonverbal communication, where people may pick up on subtle cues like body language and facial expressions.
- Understanding intimations can enhance social skills, helping individuals navigate conversations more effectively.
Cultural Insights
- In many cultures, direct communication is not always preferred; intimations are valued as a way to maintain harmony and avoid conflict.
- In some Asian cultures, avoiding direct confrontation and using intimations aligns with the cultural emphasis on group harmony and indirect communication.
Pop Culture
- Films and TV shows often rely on intimation โ a glance, pause, or silence can convey deep emotions without dialogue.
- Mystery genres frequently use intimations to build suspense, leading viewers or readers to draw conclusions before they are explicitly revealed.
Origin of 'intimation'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'intimatio', which means a hint or announcement.
- It entered the English language in the late 16th century, reflecting a time when subtle communication was valued.
The word 'intimation' originated from the Latin word 'intimatio', which means a making known. Over time, it evolved to refer to a hint or suggestion in English. The usage of 'intimation' has been prevalent in literature and formal communication, especially in legal contexts, where formal notifications are required.
See also: intimacy, intimated, intimately, intimates, intimating.