Diese Seite in deiner Sprache

English

فارسی

العربية

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A2 verb #421 am häufigsten 14 Min. Lesezeit

imply

Top 421

At the A1 level, 'imply' might be a bit difficult, but you can understand it as 'to say something without using the exact words.' Imagine you are hungry. You don't say 'I am hungry.' Instead, you say 'The food smells good!' You are implying that you want to eat. It is like a secret message. In A1, we usually use simple words like 'say' or 'mean.' But 'imply' is special because it's about what you *don't* say. For example, if a teacher looks at their watch, they are implying that the class is finished. They didn't say 'Class is over,' but you know what they mean. It's like a game of guessing. You look at what someone does or hear what they say, and you find the hidden meaning. This word helps you understand that people don't always say exactly what they are thinking. Sometimes they use their eyes, their hands, or different words to tell you something. Learning 'imply' at this level helps you start thinking about 'reading between the lines.' Even if you don't use it often, knowing what it means will help you understand more complex English conversations later on. Just remember: Imply = Secret Suggestion.

At the A2 level, you can start using 'imply' to talk about suggestions. It means to suggest something indirectly. For example, if your friend says, 'That's an interesting outfit,' they might be implying that they don't like it. They didn't say 'I don't like it,' but the way they said 'interesting' makes you think that. This is a very common way to use the word. You can use it in simple sentences like 'What do you imply?' or 'Are you implying that I'm wrong?' It's a useful word when you feel like someone is criticizing you but not saying it clearly. At this level, you should also know that 'imply' is a verb. The noun is 'implication.' You might hear people say 'What are the implications?' which means 'What are the results or hidden meanings?' Using 'imply' makes your English sound more natural and advanced. It shows that you understand that communication isn't just about the words; it's also about the tone and the context. Try using it when you want to ask someone what they really mean. It's a polite but firm way to get a clear answer. Remember, 'imply' is for the person speaking. If you are the one guessing the meaning, you are 'inferring,' but at A2, focusing on 'imply' is a great first step.

At the B1 level, 'imply' becomes a key tool for discussing opinions and logical results. You can use it to describe how one thing leads to another. For example, 'A high price doesn't always imply high quality.' This means that just because something is expensive, it doesn't necessarily mean it is good. You are talking about a logical connection. You can also use 'imply' to analyze what people say in more detail. In a discussion, you might say, 'Your argument implies that we should spend more money on education.' This shows you are following the logic of the other person's statement. At B1, you should be comfortable using the 'imply that' structure. For example: 'The report implies that the project will be successful.' This is very common in work and school settings. You should also start to distinguish 'imply' from 'suggest.' While they are similar, 'imply' often feels more like a logical consequence or a deeper, hidden meaning. 'Suggest' can be more of a direct recommendation. For instance, 'I suggest we go' is a direct idea, but 'His silence implies he is unhappy' is an observation of a hidden state. Using 'imply' correctly will help you participate in more complex debates and write better essays. It allows you to talk about the 'subtext'—the meaning under the surface of words.

At the B2 level, you should use 'imply' with precision in both academic and professional contexts. It is no longer just about 'hidden meanings' but about 'logical necessity' and 'analytical deduction.' In an essay, you might write, 'The findings of this study imply a significant shift in consumer preferences.' Here, 'imply' is used to draw a sophisticated conclusion from data. You should also be aware of the passive voice usage: 'It is implied in the text that the protagonist is seeking redemption.' This is a standard way to discuss literary themes. At B2, the distinction between 'imply' and 'infer' is crucial. You must ensure you never swap them. Remember: the evidence or the speaker implies; the researcher or the listener infers. You can also use 'imply' to discuss complex social situations. For example, 'The company's lack of response implies a lack of concern for the environment.' This uses 'imply' to make a critical observation about an organization's behavior. You might also encounter the adjective 'implicit,' which means something is suggested but not stated. For example, 'There was an implicit agreement between them.' This is the adjective form of 'imply.' Mastering these forms and the specific nuances of the word will make your communication much more professional and nuanced, allowing you to handle abstract concepts with ease.

At the C1 level, 'imply' is used to navigate the most subtle aspects of language and logic. You should be able to use it to discuss 'connotations' and 'presuppositions.' For instance, you might analyze how a specific word choice implies a certain bias in a news article. 'The use of the word "regime" instead of "government" implies a lack of legitimacy.' This is a high-level analytical use of the word. You should also be comfortable using 'imply' in the context of formal logic and philosophy, where it refers to 'entailment.' If statement A is true, it implies statement B. This is a rigorous, non-emotional application. Furthermore, you can use 'imply' to discuss the 'unspoken' rules of a culture or a professional environment. 'The corporate culture implies that employees should stay late, even if it's not in their contracts.' Here, 'imply' describes a systemic expectation. At this level, you should also be able to distinguish 'imply' from more specialized synonyms like 'insinuate' (negative/sneaky) or 'intimate' (delicate/formal). You can use 'imply' to challenge the underlying assumptions of an argument: 'What does your theory imply about the future of the economy?' This forces a deeper exploration of the topic. Your use of 'imply' should reflect a deep understanding of subtext, logic, and the power of indirect communication, making your spoken and written English both persuasive and profound.

At the C2 level, your use of 'imply' should be flawless and highly nuanced, reflecting a mastery of the English language's most subtle communicative strategies. You will use 'imply' to deconstruct complex texts, political rhetoric, and philosophical arguments. For example, you might argue that 'The very structure of the legal system implies a specific ontological view of the individual.' This uses 'imply' to connect a concrete system to an abstract philosophical concept. You are also expected to recognize when 'imply' is being used as a 'dog whistle' in political discourse—where a speaker implies a message to one group that remains hidden to others. In high-level professional negotiations, you might use 'imply' to manage 'plausible deniability.' By implying a threat or a promise rather than stating it, you leave yourself room to retreat if necessary. You should also be adept at using the noun form 'implication' in its plural sense to discuss the far-reaching consequences of a theory or a policy: 'The implications of this discovery for quantum physics are staggering.' At this level, 'imply' is not just a word; it is a tool for deep critical thinking. You understand that every choice in language—from syntax to vocabulary—carries implications that shape the listener's perception. Your ability to manipulate these implications, and to call them out in others' speech, is a hallmark of C2 proficiency. You use 'imply' to explore the boundaries of meaning, where what is unsaid is often more important than what is said.

Jetzt üben Beispiele Notizen & Tipps

imply in 30 Sekunden

Imply means to suggest something indirectly rather than stating it clearly. It is the act of sending a hidden message through words or actions.
It is often used in social situations to be polite or subtle, and in academic contexts to describe logical consequences or findings.
A key rule is that the speaker implies, while the listener infers. Confusing these two is a very common mistake for English learners.
Common synonyms include suggest, hint, and insinuate, while antonyms include state, declare, and express. It is a versatile verb for deep communication.

The verb imply is a sophisticated yet essential word used to describe the act of suggesting something without stating it directly. In everyday communication, we often communicate more than just the literal meaning of our words. When you imply something, you are wrapping a message inside another message, leaving it to the listener or reader to 'unwrap' or deduce the intended meaning. This is a fundamental aspect of human interaction, as it allows for politeness, subtlety, and the expression of complex ideas that might be too blunt if stated outright. For instance, if someone says, 'It is getting quite late,' they might be implying that they want their guests to leave, even though they haven't explicitly asked them to go. This indirectness is the core of implication.

Social Nuance: People use 'imply' when they want to highlight that a speaker's words carry a weight or a meaning that goes beyond the dictionary definition of the terms used. It is often used in discussions about subtext, tone, and body language.

His silence seemed to imply agreement, though he never actually said 'yes'.

In a more logical or academic sense, 'imply' refers to a necessary consequence. If one fact is true, it might imply that another fact must also be true. For example, 'A high fever usually implies an underlying infection.' Here, the fever is a sign or a symptom that points toward a conclusion. This usage is common in science, mathematics, and formal logic, where 'if P, then Q' means that P implies Q. Understanding this word helps learners navigate the 'unspoken' rules of English conversation and academic writing, where not everything is laid out on the surface. It is a tool for deeper comprehension and more precise expression of thought.

Logical Consequence: In technical contexts, to imply is to have something as a necessary part or result. If a contract says you must pay by Friday, it implies that you must have the funds available by then.

The heavy clouds imply that a storm is approaching.

Culturally, the ability to imply and to understand implications is often seen as a sign of high emotional intelligence and linguistic proficiency. In many English-speaking cultures, directness can sometimes be perceived as rude or aggressive. Therefore, 'implying' allows for a softer, more diplomatic way of conveying criticism or making requests. For example, a manager might say, 'This report could use a bit more data,' which implies that the current report is insufficient, rather than saying, 'This report is bad.' By using 'imply,' we acknowledge the layers of meaning that exist in human discourse, making it a vital word for anyone looking to master the subtleties of the English language.

Literary Subtext: Authors often imply themes or character traits through action and dialogue rather than telling the reader directly, which creates a more engaging experience.

Are you implying that I am responsible for this mistake?

In summary, 'imply' is about the 'hidden' or 'suggested' meaning. It is the bridge between what is said and what is meant. Whether in a heated argument, a scientific paper, or a casual conversation, 'imply' helps us identify the deeper connections and intentions behind words and events. It is a word that demands attention to detail and an awareness of context, making it one of the most powerful verbs in the English vocabulary for describing the complexities of communication.

Using the word imply correctly requires understanding its grammatical patterns and the context of 'indirect suggestion.' The most common way to use 'imply' is followed by a 'that' clause or a direct object. When you use a 'that' clause, you are explaining the specific idea that is being suggested. For example, 'Her tone of voice seemed to imply that she was angry.' In this sentence, the 'that' clause clarifies the hidden message. It is important to note that 'imply' is a transitive verb, meaning it usually needs an object to complete its meaning. You imply something.

Pattern: Imply + That-Clause: This is the most frequent structure. Example: 'The study implies that regular exercise improves mental health.' It connects an observation to a conclusion.

Do not imply that I am lying when I am telling the truth.

Another common pattern is 'imply + noun phrase.' This is used when the suggestion is a concept or a state. For instance, 'A high price doesn't always imply high quality.' Here, 'high quality' is the noun phrase being suggested by the 'high price.' This structure is very useful for making general statements or observations about how things are related. You can also use 'imply' in the passive voice, though it is less common: 'A certain level of risk is implied in any investment.' This means the risk is a natural, unspoken part of the investment process.

Pattern: Imply + Noun: Used for direct associations. Example: 'Democracy implies the right to vote.' The noun 'right to vote' is an inherent part of 'democracy'.

The presence of smoke implies the presence of fire.

In questions, 'imply' is often used to challenge someone's hidden meaning. 'What are you implying?' is a classic phrase used when someone feels they are being criticized indirectly. It forces the speaker to be more direct. In writing, 'imply' is a powerful tool for analysis. Instead of saying 'The author says,' you might say 'The author implies,' which shows you are looking deeper into the text. This elevates your writing from simple summary to critical analysis. Always ensure that the subject of 'imply' is the thing or person doing the suggesting (the source), not the person receiving the message.

Passive Voice Usage: 'It is implied that...' is a formal way to state a suggestion without attributing it to a specific person. Example: 'It is implied that all employees will attend the meeting.'

The article implies a connection between the two events.

Finally, remember that 'imply' can be used for both intentional and unintentional suggestions. A person might intentionally imply something to be polite, or a situation might unintentionally imply a certain outcome. For example, 'The messy room implies that he has been very busy.' The room isn't 'trying' to say anything, but its state leads us to a conclusion. Mastering these different sentence structures will allow you to use 'imply' with confidence in both spoken and written English, making your communication more precise and professional.

The word imply is ubiquitous across various domains, from high-stakes legal battles to casual dinner table conversations. In the professional world, you will frequently hear it in meetings and negotiations. Professionals often use 'imply' to discuss the consequences of a decision or the underlying message in a competitor's actions. For example, a marketing analyst might say, 'The competitor's price drop implies they are struggling to maintain market share.' In this context, 'imply' is used to draw a strategic conclusion from observed data. It is a word of analysis and insight.

Legal and Formal Contexts: In law, 'implied' terms are those that are not written in a contract but are assumed to exist by law or custom. You might hear a lawyer talk about an 'implied warranty'.

The contract implies that the work will be completed to a professional standard.

In academia and the sciences, 'imply' is a staple of research papers and lectures. Scholars use it to discuss what their findings suggest about a larger theory. A scientist might state, 'The presence of water on Mars implies the possibility of past life.' Here, 'imply' is used to bridge the gap between specific evidence and a broader hypothesis. It is a cautious word, allowing researchers to suggest possibilities without making definitive, unproven claims. You will also hear it in literature classes, where students and professors analyze what an author is 'implying' about society through their characters' actions.

Academic Discourse: Used to connect data to theory. Example: 'These results imply a need for further investigation into the long-term effects of the drug.'

Does this data imply a change in consumer behavior?

In everyday life, 'imply' is often heard during social conflicts or misunderstandings. If someone feels insulted by a comment, they might ask, 'Are you implying that I'm lazy?' This usage is very common in movies and TV dramas to create tension. It highlights the gap between what was said and how it was perceived. You might also hear it in the context of dating or friendships, where people try to decode what someone 'implied' by a text message or a specific look. It is the word we use when we are trying to read between the lines of our social interactions.

Daily Conversation: Used to clarify intentions. Example: 'I didn't mean to imply that you were wrong, I just have a different opinion.'

The look on her face implied that she was not impressed.

Finally, 'imply' is a key word in the world of logic and mathematics. In these fields, it has a very specific, non-emotional meaning. If a mathematician says 'A implies B,' they mean that if A is true, B must also be true by definition. This rigorous use of the word is what gives it its sense of authority and precision. Whether you are in a courtroom, a laboratory, or a coffee shop, 'imply' is the word that helps us talk about the invisible threads that connect our words, our actions, and the world around us.

The most frequent mistake people make with the word imply is confusing it with its counterpart, infer. This is a classic error even for native speakers. To keep them straight, remember the direction of the communication. 'Imply' is what the speaker or the source does. It is the act of sending a hidden message. 'Infer' is what the listener or the reader does. It is the act of receiving and interpreting that hidden message. Think of 'imply' as throwing a ball and 'infer' as catching it. You cannot 'infer' a suggestion into a sentence; you 'imply' it.

Imply vs. Infer: Wrong: 'From your words, I imply that you are unhappy.' Correct: 'From your words, I infer that you are unhappy.' or 'Your words imply that you are unhappy.'

The speaker implies; the listener infers.

Another common mistake is using 'imply' when 'suggest' or 'say' would be more accurate. 'Imply' specifically means the suggestion is indirect. If someone says 'I think you are wrong,' they are not implying it; they are stating it directly. Using 'imply' in this case is technically incorrect. Furthermore, some learners mistakenly use 'imply' with a person as the object, such as 'He implied me that...' This is incorrect. The correct structure is 'He implied to me that...' or simply 'He implied that...' The suggestion itself is the object, not the person receiving the suggestion.

Direct vs. Indirect: Don't use 'imply' for direct statements. If the meaning is on the surface, use 'state,' 'say,' or 'claim.'

He didn't just imply it; he said it out loud!

There is also a tendency to over-use 'imply' in academic writing to sound more formal. However, if a piece of evidence proves something, 'imply' is too weak. If the evidence shows something clearly, 'imply' is slightly off-target. Use 'imply' only when there is a logical leap or a suggestion rather than a direct proof. Additionally, be careful with the word 'implicate.' While it sounds similar, 'implicate' usually means to show that someone is involved in a crime. Saying 'The evidence implies him' is a mistake; you should say 'The evidence implicates him' if you mean he is involved in a crime, or 'The evidence implies his involvement' if you are suggesting it.

Weak vs. Strong Evidence: Use 'imply' for suggestions and 'demonstrate' or 'prove' for certainties. Choosing the right level of certainty is key to good writing.

Does the evidence imply guilt, or does it prove it?

Lastly, remember that 'imply' is a verb. Its noun form is 'implication' and its adjective form is 'implicit.' A common mistake is using the verb form when a noun is needed, such as 'What is the imply of this?' This should be 'What is the implication of this?' By being mindful of these distinctions—especially the imply/infer divide—you will avoid the most common pitfalls and use this sophisticated word with the precision of a native speaker.

While imply is a powerful word, there are several synonyms and alternatives that can provide more specific nuances depending on the context. The most common alternative is suggest. 'Suggest' is more neutral and can be used for both direct and indirect ideas. For example, 'I suggest we leave' is direct, while 'His behavior suggests he is unhappy' is indirect, similar to 'imply.' However, 'imply' often carries a stronger sense of a hidden or logical connection than 'suggest' does.

Imply vs. Suggest: 'Suggest' is broader. 'Imply' is more about the logical or hidden meaning within the source itself. 'Suggest' can also mean to offer an idea for consideration.

The data suggests a trend, but it implies a deeper problem.

Another close synonym is insinuate. This word has a much more negative connotation. To insinuate is to imply something unpleasant or insulting in a sneaky, indirect way. If someone says, 'I wonder how she got that promotion so quickly,' they are insinuating that she didn't earn it fairly. You would use 'insinuate' when the implication is malicious or suspicious. On the other hand, hint is a more informal and often friendlier alternative. To hint is to give a small piece of information that points toward a larger truth, often to help someone guess something.

Imply vs. Insinuate: 'Insinuate' is almost always negative. 'Imply' is neutral and can be used for positive, negative, or purely logical suggestions.

Are you insinuating that I stole the money?

In formal or literary contexts, you might encounter intimate (the verb, pronounced IN-ti-mate). To intimate is to state or make known indirectly and delicately. It is even more subtle than 'imply.' Another formal word is connote. This is used specifically in linguistics and semiotics to describe the secondary meanings or feelings that a word suggests beyond its literal definition (denotation). For example, the word 'home' connotes warmth and safety, while 'house' is more neutral. 'Connote' is about the associations of a word, whereas 'imply' is about the message of a speaker or a situation.

Formal Alternatives: 'Intimate' (verb) for very delicate suggestions. 'Signify' or 'Indicate' for when one thing points to another clearly.

The word 'winter' often connotes sadness or isolation in poetry.

Finally, words like indicate or signal can be used when the suggestion is more like a sign. 'The flashing light indicates a problem' is very similar to 'The flashing light implies a problem,' but 'indicate' feels more direct and factual. By choosing between suggest, insinuate, hint, intimate, connote, and indicate, you can tailor your language to be exactly as direct, polite, or critical as you need to be. Understanding these alternatives will greatly enrich your vocabulary and your ability to express complex ideas.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

Neutral

Informell

Child friendly

Umgangssprache

Wusstest du?

Because the root 'plicare' means 'to fold', 'imply' is a linguistic cousin to words like 'complex' (folded together), 'multiply' (many folds), and 'reply' (to fold back).

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ɪmˈplaɪ/

US /ɪmˈplaɪ/

The stress is on the second syllable: im-PLY.

Reimt sich auf

apply reply supply comply deny rely ally defy

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing the 'i' like 'ee' (eem-ply).
Stressing the first syllable (IM-ply).
Confusing the pronunciation with 'employ' (em-ploy).
Mumbling the 'm' sound so it sounds like 'in-ply'.
Making the 'y' sound too short.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

Common in news and books, but requires understanding context to see what is being suggested.

Schreiben 4/5

Requires careful use to avoid confusing it with 'infer' and to manage formal structures like 'imply that'.

Sprechen 3/5

Used frequently in debates and social clarifications, though 'suggest' is often used as a simpler alternative.

Hören 4/5

Challenging because you have to actually identify the implication while listening to the literal words.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

say mean suggest hint sign

Als Nächstes lernen

infer insinuate connote subtext deduce

Fortgeschritten

entailment presupposition illocutionary nuance ambiguity

Wichtige Grammatik

Transitive Verbs

You must imply *something* (e.g., 'He implied his dissatisfaction').

That-Clauses as Objects

Common with verbs of communication: 'The sign implies *that* we should stop'.

Passive Voice for General Truths

'It is implied that...' is used for societal or logical norms.

Subject-Verb Agreement with Abstract Nouns

'The evidence implies' (singular) vs 'The results imply' (plural).

Modal Verbs for Uncertainty

Using 'might imply' or 'could imply' to soften a conclusion.

Beispiele nach Niveau

Does this look imply that you are happy?

Does this look suggest you are happy?

Simple question with 'does'.

I did not mean to imply that.

I didn't mean to suggest that.

Negative past tense.

Her words imply a secret.

Her words suggest a secret.

Subject-verb-object.

The clouds imply rain.

The clouds suggest rain.

Simple present.

What do you imply?

What do you mean indirectly?

Basic question structure.

They imply that we are late.

They suggest that we are late.

Imply + that clause.

Silence can imply many things.

Silence can suggest many things.

Use of modal 'can'.

Does 'yes' imply 'maybe'?

Does 'yes' suggest 'maybe'?

Abstract comparison.

Are you implying that I am wrong?

Are you suggesting I'm incorrect?

Present continuous question.

The price doesn't imply quality.

Price doesn't mean it's good quality.

Negative present simple.

His smile seemed to imply agreement.

His smile suggested he agreed.

Infinitive 'to imply' after 'seemed'.

The letter implies a change of plan.

The letter suggests a new plan.

Direct object 'a change'.

I don't want to imply anything bad.

I don't want to suggest anything negative.

Infinitive after 'want to'.

Does this sign imply danger?

Does this sign suggest danger?

Interrogative form.

She implied that she was tired.

She suggested she was tired.

Past tense with 'that' clause.

The data implies a small increase.

The data suggests a small rise.

Scientific context.

The report implies that we need more staff.

The report suggests more workers are needed.

Formal subject 'The report'.

Democracy implies the right to free speech.

Democracy includes the right to speak freely.

Logical connection.

I didn't mean to imply that you were lazy.

I didn't intend to suggest you're lazy.

Negative past with 'mean to'.

What does this new law imply for us?

What are the consequences of this law for us?

Preposition 'for' used after 'imply'.

The results imply a link between diet and health.

Results suggest diet and health are connected.

Scientific 'imply'.

Are you implying that the project failed?

Are you suggesting the project was a failure?

Present continuous for current suggestion.

His tone of voice implied great sadness.

His voice suggested he was very sad.

Subject is 'tone of voice'.

The invitation implies that partners are welcome.

The invite suggests you can bring a partner.

Social implication.

The study's findings imply that the theory is flawed.

The study suggests the theory is incorrect.

Academic analysis.

High interest rates imply a slowing economy.

High rates suggest the economy is slowing down.

Economic consequence.

It is implied that all participants must register.

It's understood that everyone must sign up.

Passive voice 'It is implied'.

Does your silence imply that you agree with him?

Does your not speaking mean you agree?

Interrogative with 'silence' as subject.

The author implies a sense of hopelessness in the poem.

The poet suggests a feeling of no hope.

Literary analysis.

The contract implies a duty of care.

The legal document suggests a responsibility to be careful.

Legal context.

I don't want to imply that the situation is hopeless.

I'm not suggesting there is no hope.

Nuanced communication.

The presence of these fossils implies an ancient sea.

These fossils suggest there was once a sea here.

Geological deduction.

The use of the word 'radical' implies a certain bias.

Using 'radical' suggests a specific prejudice.

Linguistic analysis.

Her resignation implies a deeper conflict within the board.

Her quitting suggests a bigger fight in the company.

Social/Professional deduction.

The very existence of this law implies a lack of trust.

The fact this law exists suggests people aren't trusted.

Philosophical observation.

These results imply that our current methods are obsolete.

Results suggest our ways are out of date.

Strategic implication.

What does this policy imply for future generations?

What are the long-term consequences of this policy?

Inquiry into long-term effects.

The subtext of the speech implies a shift in foreign policy.

The hidden message suggests a change in international relations.

Political analysis.

To accept this premise is to imply that the conclusion is true.

Accepting the start means the end must be true.

Formal logic structure.

The silence from the capital implies a state of confusion.

No news from the city suggests they are confused.

Metonymy (the capital = the government).

The aesthetic of the building implies a rejection of modernism.

The building's look suggests it hates modern style.

Artistic/Architectural analysis.

His refusal to comment implies a tactical retreat.

Not speaking suggests he is stepping back strategically.

Strategic nuance.

The discovery of the particle implies a new era of physics.

Finding the particle suggests a big change in science.

Scientific paradigm shift.

Does the text imply a critique of the capitalist system?

Does the book suggest the economic system is bad?

Critical theory analysis.

The ambiguity of the statement was designed to imply multiple meanings.

The unclear sentence was meant to suggest many things.

Intentional ambiguity.

The shift in tone implies a burgeoning sense of resentment.

The change in voice suggests growing anger.

Psychological observation.

To ignore the data is to imply that facts are irrelevant.

Ignoring data suggests facts don't matter.

Ethical/Logical implication.

The inherent complexity of the task implies a high risk of failure.

Because it's hard, it's likely to fail.

Probabilistic implication.

Synonyme

suggest hint insinuate indicate intimate signify

Gegenteile

state declare express

Häufige Kollokationen

strongly imply

seem to imply

imply that

necessarily imply

clearly imply

imply a connection

imply agreement

imply criticism

imply guilt

logic implies

Häufige Phrasen

What are you implying?

I don't mean to imply...

It is implied that...

The results imply...

By implication

Imply a threat

Imply a promise

Doesn't imply

Seem to imply

Directly imply

Wird oft verwechselt mit

imply vs infer

The most common confusion. Imply is to send the message; infer is to receive/interpret it.

imply vs implicate

Implicate means to show someone is involved in a crime. Imply means to suggest a meaning.

imply vs insinuate

Insinuate is a type of implying, but it is specifically for negative or mean suggestions.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"Read between the lines"

To look for or find a meaning that is intended but not actually said or written. This is the act of 'inferring' what someone 'implies'.

She didn't say she was unhappy, but if you read between the lines, you can tell.

informal

"A nod is as good as a wink"

Used to say that a very small hint or suggestion is enough for someone to understand what is meant. It relies on implication.

I didn't have to tell him to leave; a nod was as good as a wink.

informal/idiomatic

"Drop a hint"

To suggest something indirectly, often to get someone to do something or to reveal a secret. Similar to 'implying' in a casual way.

I've been dropping hints about what I want for my birthday for weeks.

neutral

"Beat around the bush"

To avoid talking about what is important by talking about other things. This often happens when someone is 'implying' something rather than saying it.

Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you're implying!

informal

"Write between the lines"

A less common variation of 'read between the lines,' referring to the act of the writer 'implying' a message.

The poet was skilled at writing between the lines to avoid the censors.

literary

"Give someone the cold shoulder"

To ignore someone. This action 'implies' that you are angry with them without you having to say it.

She's been giving me the cold shoulder, which implies I did something wrong.

informal

"The elephant in the room"

An obvious problem or difficult situation that people do not want to talk about. Mentioning things around it 'implies' its presence.

Their silence about the debt implied the elephant in the room.

neutral

"Speak volumes"

If something speaks volumes, it provides a lot of information or 'implies' a lot about a situation without using words.

The look on his face spoke volumes about his disappointment.

neutral

"Under the surface"

Refers to the hidden meanings or feelings that are 'implied' rather than being obvious.

There was a lot of tension under the surface of their polite conversation.

neutral

"Hidden agenda"

A secret reason for doing something. A person's actions might 'imply' a hidden agenda.

I suspect his kindness implies a hidden agenda.

neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

imply vs infer

They describe two sides of the same communication process.

Imply is the action of the speaker/source. Infer is the action of the listener/reader. If I give you a hint, I imply. If you understand my hint, you infer.

I implied that I was tired, and from my yawning, you inferred that I wanted to sleep.

imply vs implicate

They sound very similar and share the same Latin root.

Imply is about meaning and suggestion. Implicate is about involvement in something bad, like a crime or a scandal. You imply a secret; you implicate a suspect.

The evidence implies a mistake was made, but it doesn't implicate the manager.

imply vs suggest

They are often used as synonyms.

Suggest is more general and can be direct ('I suggest we go'). Imply is always indirect. Imply also carries a stronger sense of logical necessity in formal contexts.

I suggest you read this book because its themes imply a deep sadness.

imply vs insinuate

Both mean to suggest something indirectly.

Insinuate has a negative, 'shady' connotation. It's used for insults or accusations. Imply is neutral and can be used for anything, including logical facts.

The data implies a loss, but he insinuated that I stole the money.

imply vs connote

Both deal with secondary or hidden meanings.

Connote refers to the associations of a specific word (e.g., 'red' connotes 'danger'). Imply refers to the message of a person or a whole situation.

The word 'cheap' connotes poor quality, which implies we shouldn't buy it.

Satzmuster

Subject + imply + noun

The dark sky implies rain.

Subject + imply + that + clause

He implied that he was busy.

Subject + don't/doesn't + imply + noun

Money doesn't imply happiness.

It + is + implied + that + clause

It is implied that we must wait.

Subject + seem + to + imply + that + clause

Her smile seemed to imply that she knew the secret.

Noun + by + implication + verb

The silence, by implication, confirmed the rumor.

What + subject + imply + is + that + clause

What the data implies is that we are failing.

To + verb + is + to + imply + that + clause

To ignore this is to imply that it doesn't matter.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Very common in academic, legal, and professional English. Moderately common in daily speech.

Häufige Fehler

Using 'infer' when you mean 'imply'. → The speaker implies; the listener infers.
If you are giving the hint, you are implying. If you are receiving the hint, you are inferring. They are not interchangeable.
Saying 'He implied me that...' → He implied to me that...
Imply is a transitive verb that takes the suggestion as its object. If you want to mention the person, you must use the preposition 'to'.
Using 'imply' for direct statements. → He stated that he was hungry.
If someone says something clearly and directly, they are not 'implying' it. Use 'state', 'say', or 'claim' instead.
Confusing 'imply' with 'implicate'. → The evidence implies a problem. / The evidence implicates the suspect.
Implicate is specifically for involvement in a crime or bad situation. Imply is for general suggestions of meaning.
Using the noun 'imply' instead of 'implication'. → What is the implication of this?
'Imply' is a verb. If you need a noun to describe the suggestion itself, use 'implication'.

Tipps

Use 'that' clauses

The most natural way to use 'imply' is with a 'that' clause. 'She implied that she was leaving.' This clearly identifies the suggestion.

Imply vs Infer

Remember: The source implies; the receiver infers. If you are the one guessing the meaning, use 'infer'. If you are the one giving the hint, use 'imply'.

Academic Tone

Use 'imply' to discuss your findings in essays. It sounds more professional than 'this shows' and allows for a bit of caution in your conclusions.

Polite Criticism

You can use 'imply' to soften criticism. Instead of 'You are wrong,' you might say, 'The data seems to imply a different conclusion.'

Clarifying Intent

If you think someone is offended, say 'I didn't mean to imply...' to clarify that you didn't intend a negative hidden message.

Logical Result

Use 'imply' when one fact makes another fact necessary. 'Being a parent implies having a lot of responsibility.'

Catch the Subtext

When listening to politicians or advertisements, ask yourself: 'What are they implying?' They often hide their real message behind 'implying' words.

Formal Meetings

In business meetings, use 'What does this imply for our budget?' to ask about the consequences of a decision.

Literary Analysis

When reading a novel, look for what the author implies about a character's personality through their actions rather than their descriptions.

Avoid 'Implicate'

Don't use 'imply' when you mean someone is involved in a crime. That word is 'implicate'. 'The evidence implicates him in the robbery.'

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'imply' as 'I'm plying' (folding) a secret message into my words. The 'I' in imply stands for 'Indirect'.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a letter folded inside another letter. The outer letter is what you say; the inner letter is what you imply.

Word Web

suggest hint insinuate subtext hidden indirect logic consequence

Herausforderung

Try to spend one hour today only 'implying' what you want instead of saying it directly. Then, describe the experience using the word 'imply' three times.

Wortherkunft

The word 'imply' comes from the Old French word 'emplier', which was derived from the Latin 'implicare'. The Latin root is composed of 'in-' (into) and 'plicare' (to fold).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The original meaning was 'to enfold' or 'to entangle'. It described the act of folding one thing into another.

Indo-European (Latinate/Romance branch).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when using 'imply' to describe someone's words, as it can sound like you are accusing them of being dishonest or sneaky.

In the UK, 'implying' is often used for dry humor or subtle sarcasm. In the US, it's frequently used in legal and business analysis.

The 'Implication' scene from the TV show 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' (a dark comedic take on the word). Sherlock Holmes often discusses what clues 'imply' about a crime. Jane Austen's novels are famous for characters who 'imply' their romantic interests through social etiquette.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Social Misunderstandings

What are you implying?
I didn't mean to imply that.
Are you implying I'm lying?
Your tone implies otherwise.

Academic Research

The results imply that...
This study implies a link...
The data strongly implies...
Does this imply a trend?

Legal/Contracts

An implied contract
The terms imply that...
Implied warranty of merchantability
It is implied in the agreement.

Logic/Math

A implies B
The premise implies...
If X, then Y is implied.
Logical implication.

Literature/Art

The author implies...
The imagery implies...
An implied theme
What does the ending imply?

Gesprächseinstiege

"Do you think a person's clothes imply anything about their personality?"

"When someone is late to a meeting, what does that imply to you?"

"If a friend stops texting you, does that necessarily imply they are mad?"

"In your culture, is it better to be direct or to imply what you want?"

"What do you think the current economic situation implies for the future?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Write about a time someone implied something that hurt your feelings. How did you react?

Describe a situation where you had to imply a message because you couldn't say it directly.

Analyze a famous movie scene. What did the characters imply through their body language?

Does wealth imply success? Explain your reasoning using the word 'imply' at least three times.

Think about a rule in your home that is never spoken but is 'implied'. How did you learn it?

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

No, this is a common mistake. A person 'implies' something to someone else. The other person then 'infers' it from what was said. You cannot 'infer' a message to another person.

No, 'imply' is neutral. It can be used for positive suggestions ('His smile implied he liked the gift'), negative ones ('Her tone implied anger'), or purely logical ones ('Smoke implies fire').

'Hint' is more informal and usually involves giving a small piece of information to help someone. 'Imply' is broader and can include logical consequences or very subtle subtext.

You can say, 'The study implies that...' followed by your conclusion. For example, 'The study implies that sleep is essential for memory.' This is very common in academic writing.

Yes! An object or a situation can imply something. For example, 'The broken window implies a break-in.' The window isn't a person, but its state leads to a conclusion.

It is more formal than 'say' or 'hint', but it is used in everyday conversation too. It is very common in professional and academic settings.

It means 'as a result of what has been suggested'. For example, 'He said he was too busy to help, and by implication, he didn't care about the project.'

No, that is incorrect. You should say 'He implied TO me that...' or just 'He implied that...'. The 'that' clause is the object of the verb.

The noun form is 'implication'. For example, 'What is the implication of this new rule?'

The opposite would be to 'state' or 'declare' something directly. If you aren't implying it, you are saying it clearly.