Definition

To suggest something in an indirect or subtle way, often implying something negative without stating it directly.

Example

She tried to insinuate that he was lying without actually saying it.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice how he always tries to insinuate something negative about her?

Yeah, it's really subtle but kind of annoying.

I wonder why he feels the need to insinuate things like that.

Maybe he's just insecure and wants to bring others down.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To suggest something in an indirect or subtle way, often implying something negative without stating it directly.

Example

She tried to insinuate that he was lying without actually saying it.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice how he tried to insinuate that I wasn’t doing my job well?

Yeah, I caught that too; it was really subtle but annoying.

I wonder why he felt the need to insinuate something like that instead of just talking to me directly.

Root Explanation

Insinuate is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "sinuare" (meaning to curve or bend). The word describes the act of introducing something subtly or indirectly, as if it is being curved into a conversation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bending' something 'into' a conversation — that's how insinuate means to introduce an idea subtly.

Visually Confused Words