Inklingo

How to Say "hints at" in Spanish

English → Spanish

sugiere

soo-HYEH-reh/suˈxje.ɾe/

VerbB2General
Use 'sugiere' when something subtly implies or indicates a fact or possibility, often based on observable evidence or context. It's a common and versatile choice.
A curious small brown mouse is only partially visible, peeking out halfway from behind a large, bright yellow stage curtain, implying but not fully revealing the rest of the scene.

Examples

Su silencio sugiere que no está de acuerdo con la propuesta.

His silence hints that he doesn't agree with the proposal.

La pintura sugiere una profunda tristeza.

The painting implies a deep sadness.

Impersonal Subjects

In this meaning, the subject is often an inanimate object or concept (e.g., 'El ambiente,' 'La evidencia') rather than a person.

implica

/eem-PLEE-kah//imˈplika/

VerbC1General/Formal
Choose 'implica' when the suggestion is more about the logical consequence or a deeper meaning that is not explicitly stated, often carrying a slightly more formal or definitive tone.
A thick, dark cloud of smoke rising dramatically from behind a colorful green hill, suggesting a fire is present but unseen.

Examples

El informe no lo dice, pero implica una gran pérdida de dinero.

The report doesn't say it, but it implies a great loss of money.

La manera en que te mira implica que no confía en ti.

The way he looks at you implies that he doesn't trust you.

Implica vs. Significa

'Implica' is used when the consequence or meaning is hidden or deduced. 'Significa' (means) is used for direct definitions or stated facts. Example: 'Implica que hay un problema' (suggests a problem); 'Significa 'hello'' (defines 'hello').

Choosing between 'sugiere' and 'implica'

Learners often confuse 'sugiere' and 'implica' because both mean 'suggests'. Remember that 'sugiere' is generally used for more subtle, evidence-based hints, while 'implica' often points to a logical, sometimes stronger, consequence.

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