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insinuate

verb

/ɪnˈsɪnjʊeɪt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of insinuate

To suggest or imply something indirectly, often in a subtle or devious way.
"The politician tried to insinuate that his opponent was corrupt."

Detailed meaning of insinuate

It is used to introduce an idea or a fact in a subtle way, or in a way that is not direct or explicit. It implies a lack of openness or honesty, and a tendency to be evasive or manipulative.

Insinuation can take many forms, such as making a hint, a suggestion, or a subtle comment. It can be done through words, actions, or body language. The goal of insinuation is to suggest or imply something, without being direct or explicit about it. It can be used to express a criticism, to make a suggestion, or to make an accusation, without being direct or explicit.

Insinuation can be used in a positive or negative way, depending on the context, and the intentions of the person. When used positively, it can be seen as a way to express oneself in a subtle and nuanced way, without being direct or explicit. However, when used negatively, it can be seen as a form of manipulation, or a lack of honesty and integrity. Insinuation can also be seen as a sign of poor communication skills, as it is not clear and direct.

Example sentences containing insinuate

1. He would often insinuate himself into conversations without being invited.
2. She would insinuate doubts into their minds about the project's success.
3. The journalist attempted to insinuate a scandal involving the celebrity.
4. The salesman tried to insinuate that his product was superior to the competition's.
5. He would often insinuate himself into social circles to gain influence.
6. The speaker's tone seemed to insinuate that the audience was ignorant.

History and etymology of insinuate

The verb 'insinuate' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'insinuare,' which combines 'in,' meaning 'in' or 'into,' and 'sinuare,' meaning 'to curve' or 'to wind.' In its original Latin usage, 'insinuate' described the act of curving or winding into something, often in a gradual and subtle manner. Over time, the word evolved to convey the idea of suggesting or implying something indirectly, often in a subtle or devious way, much like the gradual winding or curving of a path. This etymology underscores the notion of gently and indirectly introducing an idea or notion, which remains at the heart of the modern usage of 'insinuate.'

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Further usage examples of insinuate

1. The teacher subtly insinuated that some students were not putting in enough effort.
2. The gossip columnist would insinuate scandals about celebrities in her articles.
3. The detective tried to insinuate that the suspect had a motive for the crime.
4. She would insinuate herself into their personal lives by asking intrusive questions.
5. The customer service representative would insinuate that the problem was the customer's fault.
6. The comedian would insinuate jokes about current events into his routine.
7. The author skillfully insinuated the theme of betrayal throughout the novel.
8. The salesperson would insinuate that buying their product would solve all their problems.
9. The manager would subtly insinuate that employees who didn't meet their targets would face consequences.
10. The speaker's remarks seemed to insinuate that certain ethnicities were inferior.
11. The tabloid newspaper would insinuate scandals about public figures to boost sales.
12. The manipulative friend would insinuate doubts about others' loyalty to gain control.
13. The artist's painting would insinuate a sense of mystery and hidden meanings.
14. She tried to insinuate that I was responsible for the missing files.
15. His comments seemed to insinuate doubts about her credibility.
16. He would insinuate himself into conversations to gather information.
17. The gossip columnist would often insinuate scandalous rumors.
18. She didn't want to insinuate herself into their family disputes.
19. He would insinuate that he deserved a larger share of the credit.
20. The lawyer tried to insinuate a motive for the defendant's actions.
21. His tone of voice was designed to insinuate doubt in the jury's minds.
22. She would insinuate her opinions into every discussion.
23. They tried to insinuate that their product was the best on the market.
24. The politician would often insinuate conspiracy theories to sway voters.