When something is intimate as an adjective, it means it's about people who are very, very close friends or family. It can also describe a place that feels very private and cozy, like a small, warm room.
As a verb, to intimate means to hint at something or suggest it without saying it directly. It's like giving a small clue. So, you can be intimate with someone you love, or a quiet cafe can feel intimate. And you might intimate a secret without actually telling it.
The word "intimate" holds a dual grammatical role and semantic range, making it a nuanced term in English. As an adjective, it typically denotes a profound level of closeness, often in personal relationships, implying deep emotional connection and familiarity. This can also extend to describing a setting that evokes a sense of privacy and coziness. Conversely, when used as a verb, "intimate" shifts its meaning entirely to subtly suggesting or hinting at something without direct assertion. This often involves conveying information indirectly, perhaps through tone or implication rather than explicit statements.
§ What does 'intimate' mean?
The word 'intimate' is quite versatile and can be used as both an adjective and a verb, each with distinct but related meanings. Understanding these nuances is key to using it correctly in conversations and writing.
- DEFINITION
- As an adjective, 'intimate' describes a very close personal relationship or a private, cozy atmosphere. It suggests a deep connection, often emotional or personal, between individuals or a feeling of warmth and privacy in a setting.
When we describe a relationship as 'intimate,' we're talking about a bond that goes beyond casual acquaintance. It implies a sharing of thoughts, feelings, and experiences that are usually kept private. This could be between romantic partners, very close friends, or even family members who have a particularly strong and open connection.
They shared an intimate dinner, just the two of them.
Beyond relationships, 'intimate' can also describe a physical space. An 'intimate' setting is one that feels cozy, private, and perhaps small, encouraging close interaction or a sense of personal comfort. Think of a small, dimly lit restaurant, a quiet corner in a coffee shop, or a comfortable living room.
The small cafe had an intimate atmosphere, perfect for quiet conversation.
- DEFINITION
- As a verb, 'intimate' means to suggest or hint at something indirectly. It's about communicating an idea or feeling without stating it directly or explicitly.
When someone 'intimates' something, they're not saying it outright. Instead, they're using subtle clues, body language, tone of voice, or carefully chosen words to convey a message. This often happens when the speaker wants to avoid direct confrontation, maintain a level of politeness, or test the waters before making a bolder statement.
He intimated that he might be leaving the company soon, but didn't confirm it.
§ When do people use it?
People use 'intimate' in various contexts depending on whether they are referring to the adjective or the verb.
As an adjective, 'intimate' is frequently used to describe:
- Relationships: When discussing deep personal connections, romantic partnerships, or very close friendships.
- Settings and Environments: To evoke a sense of privacy, coziness, or a small, personal scale, often in social contexts like dinners, gatherings, or performance venues.
- Knowledge: To express a deep and detailed understanding of a subject or a place. For example, 'intimate knowledge of the city's hidden streets.'
She had an intimate understanding of the complex code.
As a verb, 'intimate' is used when someone:
- Suggests something delicately: This is common in formal or polite situations where a direct statement might be too blunt or inappropriate.
- Hints at a possibility: When an idea is being floated or tested without a full commitment.
- Communicates indirectly: Often when there's an underlying message that the speaker wants the listener to infer.
In summary, whether you're describing a deep connection between people or places, or subtly hinting at an idea, 'intimate' is a powerful word to convey closeness, privacy, or indirect communication. Paying attention to the context will help you determine its correct meaning and usage.
§ Adjective: Very close personal relationship
When 'intimate' describes a relationship, it suggests a profound closeness, often implying emotional depth, trust, and shared personal information. It goes beyond mere friendship to a level where individuals feel completely comfortable and vulnerable with each other.
- DEFINITION
- Describing a very close personal relationship.
Similar words:
- Close: This is a more general term. While 'close' can describe a strong bond, 'intimate' implies a deeper, more personal connection. You can have a close friend, but an intimate friend is someone you share your deepest secrets with.
- Confidential: This word focuses on shared secrets or private information. An intimate relationship often involves confidential information, but 'confidential' itself doesn't always imply the emotional depth of 'intimate'.
- Deep: Similar to 'close', 'deep' can refer to a strong connection. However, 'intimate' specifically points to the personal and private aspects of that depth.
- Personal: This word indicates something relating to a particular person. An intimate relationship is by nature personal, but 'personal' can also refer to individual preferences or belongings without implying a shared bond.
They shared an intimate bond, having known each other since childhood.
§ Adjective: Private, cozy atmosphere
When 'intimate' describes an atmosphere, it evokes a feeling of warmth, comfort, and privacy, often in a small or secluded setting. It suggests a space where people can relax and feel at ease, fostering close conversation and connection.
- DEFINITION
- Describing a private, cozy atmosphere.
Similar words:
- Cozy: This word is very close in meaning. 'Cozy' emphasizes comfort and warmth. An intimate atmosphere is usually cozy, but 'intimate' adds the nuance of privacy and a setting conducive to close interaction.
- Private: This word focuses on seclusion and being away from public view. An intimate atmosphere is typically private, but 'private' doesn't always convey the warmth and comfort implied by 'intimate'.
- Secluded: This refers to a place that is isolated or hidden. While a secluded spot can create an intimate atmosphere, 'secluded' focuses more on the physical separation.
- Snug: Similar to 'cozy', 'snug' suggests comfort and being well-sheltered. An intimate space can be snug, but 'intimate' also implies a certain ambiance.
The small café had an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a quiet conversation.
§ Verb: To suggest or hint indirectly
As a verb, 'intimate' means to communicate something in a subtle or indirect way, often because the speaker is hesitant to state it directly or because the information is sensitive.
- DEFINITION
- To suggest or hint at something indirectly.
Similar words:
- Hint: This is the most direct synonym. 'Hint' can be used for any subtle suggestion. 'Intimate' often suggests a more deliberate and sometimes slightly veiled suggestion, especially when the information is significant.
- Suggest: This is a broader term. You can suggest an idea or a plan directly. To intimate something is a particular way of suggesting, usually indirectly and often with some hesitation.
- Imply: This means to express or state indirectly. While similar to 'intimate', 'imply' often refers to what is understood from a statement or situation, rather than a deliberate act of hinting by a person.
- Insinuate: This word carries a negative connotation, implying that the suggestion is made maliciously or unfairly. While one might intimate something negative, 'insinuate' inherently implies ill intent, which 'intimate' does not necessarily.
- Allude: This means to refer to something indirectly without explicitly mentioning it. 'Allude' is often used for literary or historical references, while 'intimate' is more about conveying a piece of information or an opinion.
She began to intimate that she was unhappy with the current arrangement, without directly saying so.
How Formal Is It?
"The two heads of state held confidential discussions regarding the treaty."
"They've been close friends since childhood."
"We had a cozy little dinner party at my place."
"My teddy bear is my special friend."
"Me and my crew are super tight."
Beispiele nach Niveau
They shared an intimate dinner, just the two of them, in the quiet restaurant.
A close and private dinner.
Adjective: describing the dinner.
The small cafe had an intimate atmosphere, perfect for conversations.
A cozy and private atmosphere.
Adjective: describing the atmosphere.
Her diary contained her most intimate thoughts and feelings.
Her deepest and most private thoughts.
Adjective: describing the thoughts and feelings.
He tried to intimate that he wasn't happy with the decision, but he didn't say it directly.
He tried to hint at his unhappiness.
Verb: meaning to hint or suggest.
Through her tone, she intimated her disapproval of the plan.
She subtly suggested her disapproval.
Verb: meaning to suggest indirectly.
Their intimate knowledge of the local trails made them excellent guides.
Their very close and detailed knowledge.
Adjective: describing the knowledge.
She has an intimate understanding of the challenges facing the community.
She has a deep and personal understanding.
Adjective: describing the understanding.
The subtle changes in his expression intimated his true feelings.
His expressions hinted at his true feelings.
Verb: meaning to suggest or indicate.
Their intimate understanding of quantum physics allowed them to propose a groundbreaking new theory.
They deeply understood quantum physics, leading to a new theory.
Here, 'intimate' describes a profound and detailed understanding, often gained through extensive study or experience.
The dimly lit cafe provided an intimate setting for their clandestine meeting.
The cafe's dim light made for a private meeting.
In this context, 'intimate' refers to a private, personal, and somewhat secretive atmosphere.
She intimated her displeasure with the proposal by subtly shaking her head during the presentation.
She hinted at her dislike by shaking her head.
As a verb, 'intimated' means to communicate indirectly or subtly, often through gestures or hints.
Despite years of working together, their relationship remained professional rather than intimate.
Though they worked together for years, their relationship wasn't close.
Here, 'intimate' contrasts with a professional relationship, indicating a lack of deep personal connection.
The ancient diary offered an intimate glimpse into the daily life of a Victorian lady.
The diary showed a private view of a Victorian lady's life.
'Intimate' in this sentence suggests a very personal and private insight, as if one is privy to someone's innermost thoughts.
His refusal to elaborate on the matter intimated that he had something to hide.
His silence hinted he had something to hide.
Similar to the previous verb example, 'intimated' implies a subtle suggestion or insinuation.
The artist created an intimate portrait that captured the very essence of her subject's personality.
The portrait captured the subject's personality deeply.
Here, 'intimate' describes a portrait that delves deeply into the subject's character, revealing their inner self.
They shared an intimate moment, whispering secrets under the starry sky.
They had a private, close moment, sharing secrets.
'Intimate moment' refers to a private and deeply personal shared experience, often characterized by emotional closeness.
Grammatikmuster
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
"in intimate detail"
Describing something with all the private or personal particulars.
He recounted the story of his youth in intimate detail, leaving nothing out.
neutral"an intimate knowledge of something"
Having a very detailed and thorough understanding of a subject or situation.
As a local historian, she had an intimate knowledge of the town's past.
neutral"to be on intimate terms with someone"
To have a very close personal relationship with someone, often implying a deep friendship or romantic connection.
After working together for years, they were on intimate terms and knew each other's habits well.
neutral"an intimate setting"
A small, private, and cozy environment, often conducive to close conversation.
The small restaurant had an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic dinner.
neutral"intimate apparel"
A euphemism for underwear or lingerie.
The boutique specialized in delicate intimate apparel.
neutral"to make intimate suggestions"
To hint at something private or personal, often in a romantic or sexual context.
During their conversation, he started to make intimate suggestions about their future together.
neutral"intimate relations"
A euphemism for sexual intercourse.
The couple had been in intimate relations for many years.
neutral"to have an intimate relationship with a place"
To feel a deep personal connection and familiarity with a particular location.
Having grown up there, she had an intimate relationship with the quiet mountain village.
neutral"intimate moments"
Private and personal times shared between individuals, often characterized by closeness and emotional connection.
They shared many intimate moments during their long journey.
neutral"to intimate one's intentions"
To subtly suggest or make known one's plans or desires.
Without explicitly saying it, he intimated his intentions to retire next year.
formalSatzmuster
形容词 (Adjective): be intimate with (someone)
They are intimate with each other after spending years together.
形容词 (Adjective): have an intimate knowledge of (something)
She has an intimate knowledge of classical music.
形容词 (Adjective): an intimate atmosphere/setting
The restaurant has an intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date.
动词 (Verb): intimate that (clause)
He intimated that he was unhappy with the decision.
动词 (Verb): intimate (something) to (someone)
She intimated her intentions to her closest friends.
形容词 (Adjective): (intimate details/thoughts)
She shared her intimate thoughts with her best friend.
形容词 (Adjective): (intimate connection between A and B)
There is an intimate connection between diet and health.
动词 (Verb): (intimate a feeling/idea)
His silence intimated a sense of disapproval.
Teste dich selbst 66 Fragen
My cat likes to sit in my lap. We have a very ____ relationship.
Intimate means very close. The cat and owner have a close relationship.
The small café has an ____ atmosphere with soft lights and quiet music.
Intimate can describe a cozy and private atmosphere. Soft lights and quiet music make a place feel cozy.
He didn't say it directly, but he tried to ____ that he was tired.
To intimate means to suggest or hint at something indirectly. He hinted that he was tired.
An 'intimate' friend is someone you don't know well.
An intimate friend is someone you know very well and are very close to.
If you 'intimate' something, you say it clearly and loudly.
To intimate something means to suggest or hint at it, not to say it clearly or loudly.
A small, quiet room can have an 'intimate' feeling.
Intimate can describe a private, cozy atmosphere, like a small, quiet room.
Write a short sentence about two friends who are very close.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
They are intimate friends.
Write a sentence describing a cozy room.
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Sample answer
The small room feels intimate.
Write a sentence about someone suggesting something without saying it directly.
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Sample answer
He intimated that he was tired.
What kind of friendship do Mary and John have?
Read this passage:
Mary and John are good friends. They like to talk a lot and share secrets. They have an intimate friendship.
What kind of friendship do Mary and John have?
The passage states they have an intimate friendship because they are good friends and share secrets.
The passage states they have an intimate friendship because they are good friends and share secrets.
What is special about the café?
Read this passage:
The small café has soft lights and comfy chairs. It is a very intimate place to drink coffee.
What is special about the café?
The passage describes soft lights and comfy chairs, making it an intimate and cozy place.
The passage describes soft lights and comfy chairs, making it an intimate and cozy place.
What did he do?
Read this passage:
He did not say 'no' directly. He just intimated that he was busy tomorrow.
What did he do?
To 'intimate' means to suggest or hint indirectly.
To 'intimate' means to suggest or hint indirectly.
They had a very ___ conversation about their feelings.
Intimate means very private and personal, which fits the context of talking about feelings.
The small cafe had an ___ atmosphere with soft lighting.
Intimate can describe a cozy and private atmosphere, which suits a small cafe with soft lighting.
She tried to ___ that she was unhappy without saying it directly.
To intimate means to suggest or hint at something indirectly, fitting the idea of not saying something directly.
The two friends shared an ___ secret.
An intimate secret is a very personal and private one, fitting the close relationship of friends.
His smile seemed to ___ that he knew more than he was telling.
A smile can indirectly suggest or hint at something, which is the meaning of intimate as a verb.
They had an ___ dinner at home, just the two of them.
An intimate dinner suggests a private and cozy setting for just two people.
This sentence describes a close and private dinner.
This sentence describes a cozy and private atmosphere.
This sentence uses 'intimate' as a verb, meaning to hint or suggest.
They shared an ___ dinner by candlelight.
In this context, 'intimate' describes a private, cozy atmosphere, which fits well with a candlelight dinner.
His smile seemed to ___ that he knew more than he was saying.
Here, 'intimate' means to suggest or hint at something indirectly, which aligns with a smile conveying hidden knowledge.
The two friends had an ___ conversation about their future plans.
An 'intimate' conversation implies a very close and personal discussion, suitable for close friends.
She tried to ___ her disapproval without directly criticizing him.
To 'intimate' disapproval means to suggest it indirectly, avoiding direct criticism.
The small cafe had an ___ and welcoming atmosphere.
An 'intimate' atmosphere in a cafe suggests it is cozy and private, making it welcoming.
He would often ___ his intentions through subtle gestures.
To 'intimate' intentions through subtle gestures means to suggest them indirectly, rather than stating them openly.
The word 'intimate' is used as an adjective here.
Listen for how 'intimate' describes the cafe.
The word 'intimate' is used as a verb in this sentence.
Read this aloud:
Can you describe a time you shared an intimate conversation with someone?
Focus: intimate
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Read this aloud:
How would you create an intimate atmosphere in a room?
Focus: atmosphere
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Read this aloud:
If you wanted to intimate something to a friend without speaking directly, what would you do?
Focus: indirectly
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The detective tried to ___ that the witness was lying without directly accusing them.
To 'intimate' means to suggest or hint at something indirectly, which fits the context of the detective's subtle questioning.
Their ___ connection was evident in the way they anticipated each other's thoughts.
'Intimate' describes a very close personal relationship, aligning with the idea of anticipating thoughts.
The dimly lit cafe provided an ___ atmosphere perfect for a quiet conversation.
As an adjective, 'intimate' can describe a private, cozy atmosphere, which suits a dimly lit cafe for a quiet chat.
Through his subtle gestures, he managed to ___ his dissatisfaction with the proposal.
To 'intimate' means to suggest or hint indirectly, which aligns with expressing dissatisfaction through subtle gestures.
After years of shared experiences, they developed an ___ understanding that words could hardly convey.
'Intimate' describes a very close personal relationship, implying a deep understanding formed over years.
The artist’s journal offered an ___ glimpse into her creative process and personal struggles.
An 'intimate' glimpse refers to a private or very personal insight, which is fitting for a journal detailing creative and personal struggles.
The correct order forms a coherent sentence describing the nature of conversations.
The words are arranged to form a sentence about indirectly suggesting disagreement.
This sentence describes how lighting can create a cozy and private setting.
The detective tried to ___ that the witness was lying, but he had no concrete proof.
To 'intimate' means to suggest or hint at something indirectly. 'Declare', 'assert', and 'proclaim' all imply a more direct and forceful statement.
Their ___ understanding of each other's thoughts allowed them to communicate without words.
In this context, 'intimate' refers to a very close and deep understanding, which aligns with the adjective definition. 'Profound' could also work, but 'intimate' specifically highlights the personal and deeply connected nature of the understanding.
The artist sought to ___ the viewer with a sense of melancholic longing through her subtle brushstrokes.
Here, 'intimate' is used as a verb meaning to suggest or hint at, implying the artist is subtly conveying a feeling to the viewer. The other options suggest a more forceful or direct action.
Despite the grandiosity of the ballroom, a few secluded alcoves provided an ___ setting for private conversations.
As an adjective, 'intimate' can describe a private, cozy atmosphere. The alcoves offer a secluded and personal space, fitting this description. 'Expansive', 'public', and 'ostentatious' are antonyms or do not fit the context.
The subtle change in his tone was enough to ___ his displeasure, though he uttered no direct complaint.
This usage of 'intimate' as a verb means to suggest or hint indirectly. The change in tone is a subtle clue, not a direct statement, making 'intimate' the most appropriate choice.
Their bond was so ___, forged through years of shared experiences and unwavering trust.
Here, 'intimate' describes a very close and personal relationship, fitting the adjective definition perfectly. 'Superficial', 'transient', and 'casual' all imply a less deep or lasting connection.
Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) describing a scene where two people share an 'intimate' moment, using the adjective form. Focus on conveying the emotional depth and connection without explicitly stating their relationship.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
In the quiet hum of the cafe, their eyes met across the steaming cups. A silent understanding passed between them, a recognition of shared experiences that transcended words. It was an intimate moment, woven into the fabric of the ordinary, yet profound in its simplicity.
Craft a sentence where 'intimate' is used as a verb, meaning to subtly suggest or hint at something. Then, expand on that sentence with two more that clarify what was being intimated and why it wasn't stated directly.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Through a barely perceptible shift in his gaze, he intimated his displeasure with the proposal. He couldn't openly contradict his superior, but his reserved demeanor and tightened jaw clearly hinted at his reservations.
Imagine you are writing a review of a restaurant. Describe its 'intimate' atmosphere, focusing on sensory details that contribute to this feeling. Use at least three adjectives to enhance your description.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Stepping into 'The Velvet Spoon,' one is immediately enveloped by its intimate atmosphere. The soft, flickering candlelight cast dancing shadows on the exposed brick walls, while the gentle murmur of conversation created a hushed, private ambiance perfect for a quiet evening.
What is the primary characteristic of the cottage's atmosphere as described?
Read this passage:
The old cottage, nestled deep within the woods, offered an intimate refuge from the bustling city. Its low ceilings and crackling fireplace created a cozy haven where one could truly unwind. The pervasive scent of aged wood and forgotten stories further enhanced the sense of profound solitude and personal connection with the past.
What is the primary characteristic of the cottage's atmosphere as described?
The passage uses 'intimate refuge,' 'cozy haven,' and 'profound solitude' to describe the atmosphere, all pointing to privacy and comfort.
The passage uses 'intimate refuge,' 'cozy haven,' and 'profound solitude' to describe the atmosphere, all pointing to privacy and comfort.
What can be inferred about the CEO's communication style in this scenario?
Read this passage:
During the tense negotiation, the CEO only had to intimate his disappointment with the offer, and the room immediately fell silent. His subtle frown and brief, dismissive wave of the hand were enough to convey his firm refusal without a single direct word being spoken. Everyone present understood the unspoken message.
What can be inferred about the CEO's communication style in this scenario?
The passage states he 'intimate his disappointment' and that his 'subtle frown and brief, dismissive wave...were enough to convey his firm refusal without a single direct word,' indicating reliance on non-verbal cues.
The passage states he 'intimate his disappointment' and that his 'subtle frown and brief, dismissive wave...were enough to convey his firm refusal without a single direct word,' indicating reliance on non-verbal cues.
What does the passage suggest is the foundation of their intimate friendship?
Read this passage:
Their friendship had evolved into something truly intimate, built on years of shared secrets and unwavering support. They possessed an almost telepathic understanding, anticipating each other's thoughts and feelings with effortless ease. This profound bond was their most cherished possession.
What does the passage suggest is the foundation of their intimate friendship?
The passage mentions 'years of shared secrets and unwavering support' and 'almost telepathic understanding,' which are hallmarks of a long-standing, trusting, and deeply understood relationship.
The passage mentions 'years of shared secrets and unwavering support' and 'almost telepathic understanding,' which are hallmarks of a long-standing, trusting, and deeply understood relationship.
This sentence uses 'intimate' as an adjective to describe a very close and personal exchange of gestures.
Here, 'intimate' is used as a verb, meaning to suggest or hint at something indirectly, referring to her hesitation hinting at a lack of confidence.
This sentence uses 'intimate' as an adjective to describe a private, cozy atmosphere, suitable for deep conversation.
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