implies in 30 Sekunden
- Implies means to suggest something indirectly rather than saying it out loud.
- It can also describe a logical result where one thing makes another thing necessary.
- The speaker implies a message, while the listener infers the meaning from it.
- Commonly used in academic, legal, and social contexts to discuss subtext and consequences.
The verb implies is a sophisticated yet essential tool in the English language, primarily used to describe the act of suggesting something without stating it in a direct or explicit manner. When a person implies something, they are providing clues or using a specific tone that allows the listener to reach a conclusion on their own. It is the art of 'reading between the lines.' In a broader, more logical sense, implies is used to indicate that one fact or action naturally leads to another as a necessary consequence. For instance, if a law is passed, it implies that certain behaviors are now restricted, even if the law doesn't list every single restricted action by name.
- The Indirect Suggestion
- This is the most common social usage. It involves communication where the true meaning is hidden beneath the surface of the words spoken. If someone says, 'It's getting late,' they might be implying that they want you to leave their house.
His constant checking of his watch implies that he is in a hurry to leave the meeting.
- Logical Entailment
- In academic and scientific contexts, 'implies' describes a relationship where if 'A' is true, then 'B' must also be true. For example, being a mammal implies being warm-blooded.
People use this word when they want to be polite, subtle, or when they are discussing complex theories where one idea naturally flows from another. It is very common in literature, where authors imply themes rather than stating them, and in legal settings where the wording of a contract implies certain obligations. Understanding this word helps you navigate social nuances and academic arguments with greater precision. It is a bridge between what is said and what is meant, requiring the audience to engage their critical thinking skills to grasp the full scope of the message.
The high price of the product implies a high level of quality and luxury.
Her silence when asked about the project implies that she might be facing some difficulties.
- Contextual Nuance
- The word is often used to avoid direct confrontation. By implying something, a person can test the waters before committing to a direct statement.
The study implies a strong correlation between sleep and cognitive performance.
To say that someone is 'brave for doing that' sometimes implies that the action was actually quite risky or foolish.
Using implies correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical structures. Most commonly, it is followed by a 'that' clause or a direct noun phrase. Because it is a transitive verb, it always needs an object—something that is being suggested or entailed. When you use it, you are usually pointing to a piece of evidence and then stating the conclusion that evidence suggests. For example, 'The evidence implies that the suspect was at the scene.' Here, the evidence is the subject, and the conclusion is the 'that' clause.
- The 'That' Clause Structure
- Subject + implies + (that) + clause. Example: 'His tone implies that he is unhappy with the decision.' This is the most versatile way to use the word in both speech and writing.
The report implies that further funding will be necessary next year.
- The Direct Object Structure
- Subject + implies + noun phrase. Example: 'Democracy implies equality.' This structure is often used for definitions or logical relationships where the connection is direct and conceptual.
Accepting the job implies a commitment to work on weekends.
In more complex writing, you might see 'implies' used in the passive voice, though it is less common: 'It is implied that...' This is useful when the source of the suggestion is not a specific person but the general situation or a text. For example, 'It is implied in the contract that all taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.' This shifts the focus from who is suggesting to what is being suggested. Using 'implies' effectively allows you to discuss subtext and logical flow without being overly blunt or repetitive with words like 'means' or 'says'.
The sudden drop in temperature implies an approaching storm.
His choice of words implies a certain level of disrespect toward his elders.
- Logical Consequences
- When one event implies another, it suggests a causal or logical link. 'Success implies hard work' suggests that you cannot have the former without the latter.
The presence of smoke implies the presence of fire.
The survey results imply that the public is ready for a change in leadership.
You will encounter implies in a variety of professional and intellectual settings. It is a staple of academic writing, where researchers must discuss what their data suggests without making definitive, unproven claims. Instead of saying 'This data proves X,' a careful scientist might say 'This data implies X,' which acknowledges that while the evidence is strong, there might be other interpretations. You'll also hear it frequently in legal discussions, where lawyers argue about what the specific wording of a law or a contract implies regarding the rights and responsibilities of the parties involved.
- Academic Discourse
- In essays and lectures, 'implies' is used to draw connections between theories. 'The theory of relativity implies that time is not absolute' is a classic example of this usage.
The professor noted that the text implies a deep skepticism of modern technology.
- News and Media
- Journalists use 'implies' when reporting on political statements. If a politician says they are 'keeping all options on the table,' a reporter might say this implies that military action is possible.
The headline implies that the company is on the verge of bankruptcy.
Beyond formal settings, 'implies' is used in literary criticism to discuss subtext. When analyzing a novel, a critic might argue that the protagonist's behavior implies a hidden trauma. In the workplace, a manager might use the word to discuss project requirements: 'The deadline implies that we need to start working immediately.' It is also common in the world of logic and mathematics, where it describes the relationship between a premise and a conclusion. Whether you are reading a scientific journal, a legal brief, or a mystery novel, 'implies' is the word that helps you navigate the space between what is explicitly stated and what is logically or socially understood.
The job description implies that extensive travel will be required.
The silence in the room implies a general agreement with the speaker's points.
- Social Subtext
- In social interactions, 'implies' is the key to understanding sarcasm or polite refusals. If someone says 'That's an interesting choice,' they might be implying they don't like it.
Her smile implies that she knows a secret she isn't telling.
The contract implies that the landlord is responsible for major repairs.
The most frequent mistake people make with implies is confusing it with the word infers. While they are related, they represent two different sides of the communication process. To imply is to send a hidden message; to infer is to receive and interpret that hidden message. If a speaker implies something, the listener infers it. You should never say 'I implied from your look that you were angry' when you mean 'I inferred from your look.' This is a major error in formal English and can lead to confusion about who is doing the suggesting.
- The Imply vs. Infer Confusion
- Think of 'imply' as 'to fold in' (sending a message) and 'infer' as 'to bring in' (receiving a message). The speaker is the one who implies; the listener is the one who infers.
Correct: The teacher implied that the test would be difficult. Incorrect: I implied from the teacher's words that the test would be difficult.
- Overusing it for 'Means'
- Another mistake is using 'implies' when a direct meaning is intended. 'Implies' should be reserved for indirect suggestions or logical consequences. If a sign says 'No Smoking,' it doesn't imply that smoking is forbidden—it states it explicitly.
Better: The red light means stop. (Not: The red light implies stop.)
Another common error is using 'implies' with the wrong preposition. 'Implies' does not take 'to' or 'at' after it. You don't 'imply to someone' in the same way you 'talk to someone.' Instead, you 'imply something to someone.' For example, 'He implied to me that he was leaving' is acceptable, but 'He implied me that he was leaving' is incorrect. Additionally, some learners use 'implies' when they mean 'insinuates.' While similar, 'insinuate' usually has a negative or insulting connotation, whereas 'imply' is neutral. Using 'insinuate' for a logical consequence like 'Rain implies clouds' would be very strange.
Incorrect: The data implies at a change. Correct: The data implies a change.
Contextual Error: Using 'implies' when the suggestion is actually very direct and obvious.
- Tense Consistency
- When discussing literature or facts, we often use the present tense 'implies' even if the book was written long ago. 'The novel implies...' is better than 'The novel implied...'
Standard: The definition implies that all members are included.
Grammar check: 'What does this imply?' (Correct use of base form with 'does').
While implies is a powerful word, using it too often can make your writing feel repetitive. Depending on the context, there are several alternatives that can add variety and precision to your language. The most common synonym is suggests. 'Suggests' is slightly softer and less formal than 'implies.' It indicates that something is possible but perhaps not a necessary conclusion. Another close alternative is indicates, which is often used when there is physical evidence involved, such as 'The thermometer indicates a fever.' In logical or formal contexts, you might use entails or involves, which carry a stronger sense of necessity.
- Suggests vs. Implies
- 'Suggests' is more tentative. 'The data suggests a trend' means it looks like there's a trend. 'The data implies a trend' sounds a bit more certain or logically linked.
Alternative: His behavior hints at a deeper problem.
- Insinuates
- Use 'insinuates' when the suggestion is unpleasant, mean-spirited, or sly. 'He insinuated that I stole the money' is much more accusatory than 'He implied I was responsible.'
Alternative: The contract entails several responsibilities.
In academic writing, connotes is another useful word, specifically when talking about the emotional or cultural associations of a word rather than its literal meaning. For example, 'The word "home" connotes warmth and safety.' If you are talking about what a person is trying to say indirectly, alludes to is a great choice, especially if they are referencing something else. 'She alluded to our previous argument' means she mentioned it indirectly. Choosing the right alternative depends on whether you want to sound formal, subtle, accusatory, or logical. By mastering these synonyms, you can express complex ideas with much greater clarity and style.
Alternative: The results point to a need for more research.
Alternative: Silence often signifies consent in certain cultures.
- Logical Entailment
- In logic, 'implies' is often replaced by 'if... then...' constructions to make the relationship even more explicit.
Alternative: Her frown betrays her true feelings.
Alternative: The plan presupposes that we have enough money.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The original meaning of 'folding into' is still felt today in the idea that an implication is a meaning 'folded' inside a statement, waiting to be unfolded by the listener.
Aussprachehilfe
- Stressing the first syllable (IM-plies).
- Pronouncing the 's' as an 's' instead of a 'z'.
- Confusing the vowel sound with 'em-plees'.
- Swallowing the 'm' sound.
- Failing to make the 'ai' sound a full diphthong.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
Common in news and books, but requires understanding of subtext.
Requires careful use to avoid confusion with 'infer'.
Less common in casual speech than 'means' or 'suggests'.
Easy to hear, but the actual implication can be hard to catch.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Transitive Verbs
Implies needs an object (e.g., 'The sign implies [danger]').
That-Clauses
Commonly used as the object (e.g., 'He implies [that he is busy]').
Subject-Verb Agreement
The report implies (singular) vs. The reports imply (plural).
Passive Voice
Used to focus on the suggestion (e.g., 'It is implied that...').
Infinitive of Purpose
Used to explain a goal (e.g., 'He spoke softly to imply a secret').
Beispiele nach Niveau
A smile implies that a person is happy.
Un sourire implique qu'une personne est heureuse.
Subject (A smile) + verb (implies) + that-clause.
Dark clouds imply that it might rain.
Les nuages sombres impliquent qu'il pourrait pleuvoir.
Plural subject (clouds) uses 'imply'.
His silence implies he is thinking.
Son silence implique qu'il réfléchit.
Third-person singular 'implies'.
A red light implies you must stop.
Un feu rouge implique que vous devez vous arrêter.
Simple logical consequence.
Does this sign imply we can't enter?
Ce panneau implique-t-il que nous ne pouvons pas entrer ?
Question form with 'does' and base verb 'imply'.
The gift implies she likes you.
Le cadeau implique qu'elle t'apprécie.
Social suggestion.
Yawning implies that someone is tired.
Bâiller implique que quelqu'un est fatigué.
Gerund subject (Yawning).
The empty plate implies he finished his dinner.
L'assiette vide implique qu'il a fini son dîner.
Evidence leading to a conclusion.
The low price implies the quality might be poor.
Le prix bas implique que la qualité pourrait être médiocre.
Using 'might' in the that-clause for possibility.
She implies that she wants to go home now.
Elle implique qu'elle veut rentrer chez elle maintenant.
Indirect suggestion.
His tone implies that he is angry with us.
Son ton implique qu'il est en colère contre nous.
Abstract subject (His tone).
The map implies that the lake is nearby.
La carte implique que le lac est à proximité.
Drawing a conclusion from a source.
What does your message imply?
Que signifie ton message (sous-entendu) ?
Interrogative sentence.
A high grade implies that you studied hard.
Une bonne note implique que tu as beaucoup étudié.
Logical link between result and effort.
The invitation implies that we should dress formally.
L'invitation implique que nous devrions nous habiller formellement.
Social expectation.
The messy desk implies he has been very busy.
Le bureau en désordre implique qu'il a été très occupé.
Inference from physical state.
The report implies that we need to change our strategy.
Le rapport implique que nous devons changer de stratégie.
Formal subject (The report).
Democracy implies that every citizen has a voice.
La démocratie implique que chaque citoyen a une voix.
Abstract concept as subject.
Are you implying that I made a mistake?
Es-tu en train d'insinuer que j'ai fait une erreur ?
Present continuous form 'implying'.
The presence of water implies the possibility of life.
La présence d'eau implique la possibilité de vie.
Scientific context.
The contract implies a long-term commitment.
Le contrat implique un engagement à long terme.
Direct object (a commitment).
His silence should not be taken to imply consent.
Son silence ne doit pas être interprété comme un consentement.
Infinitive form 'to imply'.
The study implies a link between diet and health.
L'étude implique un lien entre l'alimentation et la santé.
Common academic usage.
The lack of evidence implies that the theory is wrong.
L'absence de preuves implique que la théorie est fausse.
Logical deduction.
The author implies that the protagonist is unreliable.
L'auteur laisse entendre que le protagoniste n'est pas fiable.
Literary analysis.
This policy implies a shift in the government's priorities.
Cette politique implique un changement dans les priorités du gouvernement.
Political context.
The data strongly implies that the experiment was a success.
Les données suggèrent fortement que l'expérience a été un succès.
Using the adverb 'strongly' for emphasis.
Accepting the terms implies that you have read them.
Accepter les conditions implique que vous les avez lues.
Gerund phrase as subject.
His criticism implies a deep misunderstanding of the topic.
Sa critique implique une profonde incompréhension du sujet.
Abstract noun object.
The sudden silence in the room implied something was wrong.
Le silence soudain dans la pièce laissait entendre que quelque chose n'allait pas.
Past tense 'implied'.
It is often implied that wealth leads to happiness.
Il est souvent sous-entendu que la richesse mène au bonheur.
Passive voice 'is implied'.
The law implies that everyone is equal before the court.
La loi implique que tout le monde est égal devant le tribunal.
Legal principle.
The structural integrity of the argument implies a deeper ontological commitment.
L'intégrité structurelle de l'argument implique un engagement ontologique plus profond.
Highly formal academic register.
Her subtle choice of adjectives implies a hidden bias.
Son choix subtil d'adjectifs laisse entendre un parti pris caché.
Linguistic analysis.
The failure to act implies a tacit approval of the situation.
L'inaction implique une approbation tacite de la situation.
Moral/Political implication.
The theorem implies that no such number can exist.
Le théorème implique qu'aucun nombre de ce type ne peut exister.
Mathematical necessity.
The very existence of this document implies a secret agreement.
L'existence même de ce document implique un accord secret.
Emphasizing the subject with 'very'.
His resignation implies that he no longer supports the board.
Sa démission implique qu'il ne soutient plus le conseil d'administration.
Professional consequence.
The text implies a world where technology has failed.
Le texte suggère un monde où la technologie a échoué.
Describing a fictional setting.
The budget cuts imply a reduction in essential services.
Les coupes budgétaires impliquent une réduction des services essentiels.
Economic consequence.
The nuanced rhetoric of the speech implies a shift toward multilateralism.
La rhétorique nuancée du discours suggère un virage vers le multilatéralisme.
Analyzing diplomatic language.
The lack of transparency implies a systemic failure of governance.
Le manque de transparence implique une défaillance systémique de la gouvernance.
Critique of institutional structures.
To posit this theory is to imply a radical restructuring of physics.
Avancer cette théorie, c'est impliquer une restructuration radicale de la physique.
Infinitive as subject 'To posit... is to imply'.
The silence from the capital implies a state of internal paralysis.
Le silence de la capitale suggère un état de paralysie interne.
Metaphorical usage.
The data's variance implies that the initial hypothesis was overly simplistic.
La variance des données implique que l'hypothèse initiale était trop simpliste.
Statistical interpretation.
The use of the archaic term implies a nostalgic view of the past.
L'utilisation du terme archaïque suggère une vision nostalgique du passé.
Stylistic analysis.
The treaty's ambiguity implies a fragile compromise between the nations.
L'ambiguïté du traité suggère un compromis fragile entre les nations.
International relations context.
The philosophical framework implies a deterministic view of human action.
Le cadre philosophique implique une vision déterministe de l'action humaine.
Theoretical implication.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— A question asking for the hidden meaning or consequence of something.
You said the budget is tight. What does that imply for our project?
— A common logical structure used to show a conditional relationship.
If being a citizen implies having rights, then we must protect those rights.
— Used to describe something that is suggested rather than stated.
He criticized the team and, by implication, the manager.
— Consent that is not granted by a person's explicit words, but rather implicitly by their actions.
By entering the building, you are giving implied consent to be filmed.
— A passive way to state a suggestion or expectation.
It is implied that all employees will attend the meeting.
— To suggest that the opposite of what was just said is true.
I said I was happy, but my face seemed to imply otherwise.
— Used to say that something does not necessarily mean something else.
A single failure hardly implies that the whole plan is bad.
— A common way to start an analysis of a book or article.
The text implies that the author was living in poverty at the time.
— A way to confront someone about a hidden suggestion they might be making.
Are you implying that I'm the one who lost the keys?
— A proverb suggesting that if you don't object, you agree.
Nobody spoke up against the plan, and silence implies consent.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
The most common confusion. Imply is to suggest; infer is to deduce.
Insinuate is almost always negative or insulting; imply is neutral.
Mean is direct; imply is indirect.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To look for the meaning that is implied rather than stated directly.
You need to read between the lines of his letter to see how he really feels.
informal— To accept that something is true or implied without needing to discuss it.
We can take it as read that everyone wants the project to succeed.
neutral— Used to say that a hint or subtle suggestion is enough to be understood.
He didn't say it directly, but a nod is as good as a wink to a blind horse.
informal— To imply through behavior that you are angry or don't want to talk to someone.
She gave him the cold shoulder, which implied she hadn't forgiven him.
informal— To imply something in a very subtle way.
He dropped a hint that he might be looking for a new job.
informal— An obvious problem that is implied by everyone's silence but not discussed.
Their recent argument was the elephant in the room during dinner.
informal— To imply a great deal of information without saying a word.
The look on her face spoke volumes about her disappointment.
neutral— Signs that imply a future failure or disaster.
The falling sales were the writing on the wall for the company.
neutral— To imply something without coming to the point directly.
Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you're implying!
informal— To wait for the inevitable consequence that a situation implies.
The first mistake was small, but we're waiting for the other shoe to drop.
informalLeicht verwechselbar
They are two sides of the same coin.
Imply is what the sender does (the hint). Infer is what the receiver does (the guess). You imply something to me; I infer something from you.
She implied she was tired, and I inferred that we should leave.
Both involve indirect suggestion.
Insinuate has a 'sneaky' or 'bad' feeling. You insinuate that someone is a thief. You imply that a project needs more time.
He insinuated that I cheated on the test.
Both are indirect.
Allude usually means to mention something else briefly or indirectly. Imply means to suggest a hidden meaning within the current statement.
He alluded to his past mistakes but implied he had changed.
Both deal with secondary meanings.
Connote refers to the feelings or ideas a word carries. Imply refers to the message a person or fact suggests.
The word 'home' connotes safety, but his tone implied he didn't feel safe there.
Both deal with consequences.
Entail is stronger and more formal. It means one thing *must* involve another. Imply can be a softer suggestion.
The job entails travel, which implies you need a passport.
Satzmuster
Subject + implies + that + clause
His smile implies that he is happy.
Subject + implies + noun phrase
Success implies hard work.
It + is + implied + that + clause
It is implied that everyone must help.
Subject + strongly + implies + that + clause
The data strongly implies that the plan works.
Noun + by + implication + verb
The policy, by implication, excludes students.
Gerund phrase + implies + noun
Reducing costs implies cutting staff.
To + verb + is + to + imply + noun
To doubt him is to imply he is lying.
Subject + necessarily + implies + noun
The theorem necessarily implies a limit.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Common in written English, especially academic and journalistic styles.
-
Using 'infer' instead of 'imply'.
→
The speaker implied that he was unhappy.
The speaker is the one giving the hint, so they 'imply'. The listener 'infers'.
-
Saying 'implies to someone' incorrectly.
→
He implied that I was wrong.
You don't need 'to me' after 'implied' unless you are specifically emphasizing the recipient, and even then, 'implied that' is usually better.
-
Using 'implies' for direct statements.
→
The sign says 'Stop'.
If the message is written clearly, it doesn't 'imply'—it 'states' or 'says'.
-
Forgetting the 's' in the third person.
→
The evidence implies a problem.
Evidence is singular, so the verb must be 'implies'.
-
Using 'insinuate' for neutral facts.
→
The smoke implies a fire.
'Insinuate' is for negative human suggestions, not for natural logical results.
Tipps
Subject-Verb Agreement
Always remember to add the 's' for third-person singular subjects. 'The study implies' but 'The studies imply.' This is a common mistake for learners.
The Imply/Infer Rule
If you are the one speaking, you are implying. If you are the one listening and guessing the meaning, you are inferring. Think of it as throwing (implying) and catching (inferring) a ball.
Hedging with Implies
In research, use 'implies' to show that your data points to a conclusion without claiming it is an absolute, 100% proven fact. It makes your writing sound more scientific and careful.
Polite Refusals
You can use 'implies' to understand polite refusals. If someone says 'I'll see if I can make it,' they might be implying that they probably won't come.
Synonym Choice
Use 'insinuate' only if you want to sound like you are accusing someone of something bad. For neutral suggestions, stick with 'imply' or 'suggest'.
Logical Flow
When writing an argument, use 'implies' to link your premises to your conclusion. It shows the reader that your thoughts follow a logical path.
Passive Voice
Use 'It is implied that...' when you want to talk about a general rule or expectation that nobody has said out loud but everyone knows.
Catching Subtext
When listening to native speakers, try to identify what they are implying. Often, the most important part of the message is not in the words themselves.
Clarity
If a situation is very direct, don't use 'implies.' Use 'states' or 'shows.' Only use 'implies' when there is some level of indirectness.
Legal Awareness
In business, be careful what your emails imply. Even if you don't say something directly, the 'implied' meaning can sometimes be used against you in disputes.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of 'imply' as 'I'm plying' (folding) a secret into my words. The speaker 'folds' the meaning in (implies), and the listener 'finds' it (infers).
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a letter folded inside an envelope. The envelope is the spoken sentence, and the letter inside is what the speaker implies.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to write three sentences where you imply something to a friend without using the word 'want' or 'need'. Then, explain what each sentence implies.
Wortherkunft
Derived from the Old French word 'emplier', which comes from the Latin 'implicare'. The Latin root is composed of 'in-' (into) and 'plicare' (to fold).
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To fold into, entwine, or involve.
Romance (via Latin)Kultureller Kontext
Be careful when saying 'Are you implying...?' as it can sound defensive or accusatory in social situations.
In the UK, 'implies' is often used in 'understatement,' where a speaker says something mild to imply something much stronger.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Academic Writing
- The evidence implies...
- This finding implies that...
- As the theory implies...
- The data strongly implies...
Legal/Contracts
- The contract implies...
- Implied terms of the agreement
- It is implied by law that...
- Does this clause imply...?
Social Situations
- Are you implying that...?
- I didn't mean to imply...
- Her tone implies...
- What are you implying?
Logic/Math
- P implies Q
- The statement implies...
- Logical implication
- This necessarily implies...
Literary Analysis
- The author implies...
- The subtext implies...
- The character's actions imply...
- The setting implies a sense of...
Gesprächseinstiege
"What do you think it implies when someone is always late to a meeting?"
"Does a high price always imply high quality in your opinion?"
"If a friend stops texting you, what does that usually imply to you?"
"Do you think silence in a conversation implies agreement or discomfort?"
"What does the current economic situation imply for young people starting careers?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Write about a time you implied something to someone but they didn't understand the hint.
Describe a situation where you inferred something that the speaker didn't actually imply.
What does the word 'freedom' imply to you personally in your daily life?
Analyze a famous movie scene and explain what the characters' body language implies.
Discuss how social media 'likes' can imply different things depending on the context.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenYes, people often imply things unintentionally through their body language or tone. For example, if you look at your watch while someone is talking, you might imply you are bored even if you aren't. This is why being aware of what your actions imply is important for good communication.
No, 'implies' can have objects or facts as subjects. For example, 'The evidence implies...' or 'The law implies...' In these cases, it means that the fact or law leads to a certain logical conclusion.
'Suggest' is more general and can be very tentative. 'Imply' often carries a stronger sense of logical connection or a more deliberate (though indirect) message. However, in many casual contexts, they are used as synonyms.
You use it with 'do' or 'does'. For example: 'What does this result imply?' or 'Are you implying that I am wrong?'
Yes, 'implied' can be an adjective, as in 'an implied threat' or 'implied consent.' It describes something that was suggested but not stated.
This is a strong logical phrase meaning that if the first thing is true, the second thing *must* be true. There is no other possibility.
Yes, that is correct. You can also say 'He implied that...' both are common.
An implication is the noun form. It refers to the thing that is being implied or the possible future effect of an action. 'The implications of the decision are huge.'
It is more formal than 'means' or 'says,' but it is very common in standard English, especially in professional and academic settings.
Yes, the past tense is 'implied.' 'He implied that he was coming, but he never showed up.'
Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen
Write a sentence using 'implies' to describe a logical consequence.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence where someone implies they are unhappy without saying it directly.
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Explain the difference between 'imply' and 'infer' in your own words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a short paragraph about what a messy room might imply about a person.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Use 'implies' in a sentence about a scientific study.
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Write a sentence using the passive form 'It is implied that...'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Create a dialogue where one person asks 'Are you implying that...?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Write a sentence using 'implies' and the adverb 'strongly'.
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Use 'implies' to discuss a rule in a game.
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Write a sentence about what a high price implies for a customer.
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Describe a character's action and what it implies about their personality.
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Write a sentence using 'implies' in a legal context.
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Use 'implies' to explain a mathematical relationship.
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Write a sentence where a politician implies a future policy change.
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Describe a cultural difference in what a specific gesture implies.
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Write a sentence using 'implies' to analyze a poem or story.
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Use 'implies' to discuss the consequences of climate change.
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Write a sentence using 'implies' with a plural subject.
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Create a sentence using 'implies' to describe a social expectation.
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Write a sentence using 'implies' to describe a feeling.
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Describe a time someone implied something to you and you didn't understand.
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Explain what a red traffic light implies to a driver.
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Discuss what a high price implies about a new restaurant.
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Talk about what your favorite book implies about the world.
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Roleplay: Ask a coworker if they are implying that you are late.
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Explain the difference between 'imply' and 'infer' to a friend.
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What does a person's body language imply when they cross their arms?
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Discuss what a clean desk implies about a worker.
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Talk about what a sudden drop in temperature implies about the weather.
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Explain what 'silence implies consent' means in your culture.
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What does a long delay in a reply to a text message imply to you?
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Discuss what a company's logo might imply about its values.
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Talk about what a teacher's praise implies about a student's work.
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Explain what a 'No Smoking' sign implies about the rules of a building.
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Discuss what a person's choice of clothes implies about their personality.
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Talk about what a scientific discovery implies for the future of humanity.
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Explain what a budget cut implies for a local school.
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Discuss what a movie's ending implies about the main character's fate.
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Talk about what a handshake implies in a business meeting.
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Explain what a 'Welcome' mat implies to a visitor.
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Listen to the sentence: 'His tone implies he's not coming.' What is the speaker suggesting?
Listen: 'The data implies a shift.' Is the change direct or suggested?
Listen: 'Are you implying I'm wrong?' What is the speaker's emotion?
Listen: 'The contract implies terms.' Are the terms written down?
Listen: 'Her smile implied a secret.' What did the listener infer?
Listen: 'Silence implies consent.' What does the speaker believe?
Listen: 'The report implies a need.' What is the conclusion?
Listen: 'It was implied that we should help.' Who said it directly?
Listen: 'The map implies a lake.' Where is the lake?
Listen: 'One mistake doesn't imply failure.' Is the speaker being supportive?
Listen: 'The theorem implies X.' What is the logical result?
Listen: 'His resignation implies a split.' What happened to the team?
Listen: 'The budget cuts imply losses.' What is the negative result?
Listen: 'The author implies a theme.' Is the theme stated clearly?
Listen: 'What does that imply?' What is the person asking for?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'implies' is used to describe indirect communication or logical necessity. For example, 'His silence implies agreement' means he didn't say yes, but his lack of objection suggests it.
- Implies means to suggest something indirectly rather than saying it out loud.
- It can also describe a logical result where one thing makes another thing necessary.
- The speaker implies a message, while the listener infers the meaning from it.
- Commonly used in academic, legal, and social contexts to discuss subtext and consequences.
Subject-Verb Agreement
Always remember to add the 's' for third-person singular subjects. 'The study implies' but 'The studies imply.' This is a common mistake for learners.
The Imply/Infer Rule
If you are the one speaking, you are implying. If you are the one listening and guessing the meaning, you are inferring. Think of it as throwing (implying) and catching (inferring) a ball.
Hedging with Implies
In research, use 'implies' to show that your data points to a conclusion without claiming it is an absolute, 100% proven fact. It makes your writing sound more scientific and careful.
Polite Refusals
You can use 'implies' to understand polite refusals. If someone says 'I'll see if I can make it,' they might be implying that they probably won't come.
