insinuar
“insinuar” means “to hint” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to hint
Also: to imply, to suggest
📝 In Action
Ella insinuó que el examen sería difícil.
B1She hinted that the exam would be difficult.
¿Qué estás insinuando con esas palabras?
B2What are you implying with those words?
El jefe insinuó la posibilidad de un ascenso.
B2The boss suggested the possibility of a promotion.
to hit on someone
Also: to insinuate oneself
📝 In Action
Él intentó insinuarse a su compañera de trabajo.
B2He tried to hit on his coworker.
Ella se insinuó en el círculo de amigos rápidamente.
C1She insinuated herself into the friend circle quickly.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: insinuar
Question 1 of 3
If your boss says 'maybe we should think about the budget' without saying why, he is...
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin 'insinuare', which meant 'to put into a fold or curve'. It comes from 'sinus' (curve/hollow), suggesting the idea of winding one's way into something indirectly.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'insinuar' always a bad thing?
Not necessarily, but it often carries a slightly mysterious or suspicious tone because the person isn't being direct.
What is the difference between 'sugerir' and 'insinuar'?
'Sugerir' is usually helpful and direct (e.g., suggesting a restaurant). 'Insinuar' is indirect and often used when someone is hiding their true meaning.
Does it have the same accent in the past tense?
No. In the past tense (preterite), the accent follows the normal rules: 'insinué', 'insinuó'.