Suggestive Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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suggestive

[sษ™หˆdส’ษ›stษชv ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

behavior

Tending to suggest something improper or indecent; giving a hint or clue of something that is not directly expressed.

Synonyms

alluding, hinting, implying, insinuating.

Examples of usage

  • She gave him a suggestive look across the room.
  • The movie was filled with suggestive scenes.
  • His suggestive comments made her uncomfortable.
  • Her suggestive behavior was inappropriate for the workplace.
  • The painting had a suggestive quality that captured the viewers' attention.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Suggestive hints can influence people's thoughts and choices, often used in therapy to guide patients.
  • Research shows that suggestive techniques can affect memory recall, sometimes leading people to remember events that didn't happen.

Pop Culture

  • In literature and film, suggestive scenes can evoke deep feelings and tension without explicit content.
  • Certain songs are known for their suggestive lyrics that evoke romantic or intimate themes, adding to their appeal.

Art

  • Art can be suggestive through symbolism, where colors and shapes imply meanings beyond the obvious.
  • Impressionism often relies on suggestive brush strokes that invite viewers to interpret the artwork in various ways.

Communication

  • In conversation, suggestive language can persuade or influence opinions subtly, often seen in advertising.
  • Non-verbal cues, like body language and facial expressions, can also be highly suggestive, conveying messages without words.

Origin of 'suggestive'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'suggestive' comes from the Latin 'suggestivus', meaning 'to put in one's mind'.
  • It entered the English language in the early 19th century and has evolved to describe hints or implications.

The word 'suggestive' originated from the Latin word 'suggestivus', which is derived from the verb 'suggerere' meaning 'to bring up, offer'. The term first appeared in the English language in the early 17th century. Over time, 'suggestive' has come to be associated with implications or hints of something beyond the obvious, especially in a potentially controversial or inappropriate manner.


See also: suggest, suggested, suggestible, suggesting, suggestion, suggestively.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,668 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.