B2verb 2K

Imply

🇬🇧 UK /["/ɪmˈplaɪ/","/ɪmˈplaɪz/","/ɪmˈplaɪd/","/ɪmˈplaɪɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ɪmˈplaɪ/","/ɪmˈplaɪz/","/ɪmˈplaɪd/","/ɪmˈplaɪɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Imply

to suggest that something is true or that you feel or think something, without saying so directly

In simple words: To suggest something without saying it directly.

Imply in a sentence

• The teacher did not say it directly, but she seemed to imply that there would be a test next week.
• When he mentioned the budget cuts, he was trying to imply that changes would need to be made.
• The author's choice of words may imply deeper meanings than what is immediately apparent.
• Her smile can imply that she is pleased with the outcome.
• To imply that he is responsible for the mistakes is unfair.
• The use of irony can imply a critique of social norms.

How to use Imply

Use 'imply' when you want to indicate something indirectly. It’s more appropriate in formal writing and discussions. Avoid using it in very casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

imply + object

Memory hint

Think of 'imply' as 'in-plain sight' — hinting at something you don’t say outright.

Related words

Collocations with Imply

• clearly
• heavily
• strongly
• seem to
• intend to
• mean to
• express or implied
• real or implied
• clearly
• heavily
• strongly
• seem to
• intend to
• mean to
• express or implied
• real or implied

Synonyms for Imply

• suggest
• mean

Opposites of Imply

• state
• declare
• express

Common mistakes with Imply

• 'Imply' is often confused with 'infer' — remember, you imply something while someone else infers it.
• Some learners use 'imply' without an object, which is incorrect.
• Mixing up the uses of 'suggest' and 'imply' can lead to misunderstandings.

Frequently asked questions about Imply

What does Imply mean?

To suggest something without saying it directly.

What is the definition of Imply?

to suggest that something is true or that you feel or think something, without saying so directly

How do you use Imply in a sentence?

The teacher did not say it directly, but she seemed to imply that there would be a test next week.

Can you give another example of Imply?

When he mentioned the budget cuts, he was trying to imply that changes would need to be made.

What are synonyms for Imply?

Common alternatives include suggest, mean.

What is the opposite of Imply?

Opposite meanings include state, declare, express.

What words go with Imply?

It commonly pairs with clearly, heavily, strongly, seem to, intend to, mean to, express or implied, real or implied, clearly, heavily, strongly, seem to, intend to, mean to, express or implied, real or implied.

What are common mistakes when using Imply?

'Imply' is often confused with 'infer' — remember, you imply something while someone else infers it. Some learners use 'imply' without an object, which is incorrect. Mixing up the uses of 'suggest' and 'imply' can lead to misunderstandings.

How do you pronounce Imply?

US: /["/ɪmˈplaɪ/","/ɪmˈplaɪz/","/ɪmˈplaɪd/","/ɪmˈplaɪɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ɪmˈplaɪ/","/ɪmˈplaɪz/","/ɪmˈplaɪd/","/ɪmˈplaɪɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Imply?

Use 'imply' when you want to indicate something indirectly. It’s more appropriate in formal writing and discussions. Avoid using it in very casual contexts.

What CEFR level is Imply?

"Imply" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.