1
Core action
Suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
Example
The results imply that another factor is involved.
imply
/ɪmˈplaɪ/ · im-PLYverb
Suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
Use imply to express this relationship precisely: suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
What imply Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Common construction
Use this expression in its normal grammatical frame so the relationship between the surrounding ideas remains explicit.
Example
Her silence did not necessarily imply agreement.
3
Reasoning effect
It tells the reader how to interpret the timing, scope, evidence, contrast, condition, or consequence in the statement.
Example
The title implies a conflict that the essay later examines.
Use imply Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The results imply that another factor is involved.
Her silence did not necessarily imply agreement.
The title implies a conflict that the essay later examines.
Precision Matters
Imply overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
imply
vs.Means suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
infer
Means to reach a conclusion from evidence and reasoning rather than direct statement.
imply
vs.Means suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
explicit
Means stated directly and with complete clarity.
imply
vs.Means suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
articulate
Means able to express ideas clearly, fluently, and effectively.
imply
vs.Means suggest, indicate, or communicate something indirectly without stating it explicitly.
convey
Means communicate, express, or make an idea, feeling, or piece of information known.
Test imply in Context
The wording suggests the conclusion without directly stating it.
1
By describing the change as 'temporary,' the report appears to ___ that conditions will eventually return to normal.