imply

To communicate an idea without saying it directly.

• What are you trying to imply?
• His tone implied that he was unhappy.
• I never meant to imply that you had lied.

How to use it: imply that… (Her smile implied that she already knew the answer.)

Similar words: suggest, hint, insinuate

Common phrases: imply something, imply that, seem to imply

To suggest a conclusion that can be reached by thinking about the available facts.

• The evidence implies that someone entered the room.
• These results imply a connection between sleep and memory.
• What does the sudden drop in sales imply?

How to use it: imply that… (The tracks imply that a large animal passed this way.)

Similar words: suggest, indicate

Common phrases: imply that, results imply, evidence may imply

To necessarily involve something or make it follow as a result.

• Membership implies certain responsibilities.
• A square shape implies four equal sides.
• Does accepting the offer imply agreement with every condition?

How to use it: imply something (Owning the land does not imply permission to build on it.); imply that… (These conditions imply that the solution must be unique.)

Similar words: entail, involve

Common phrases: necessarily imply, imply something, does not imply