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suggestive

adjective

/səgˈdʒɛs tɪv/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of suggestive

Evoking or implying a particular idea, thought, or feeling without directly stating it.
"Her suggestive gaze hinted at her hidden desires."

Detailed meaning of suggestive

It carries connotations of alluding to or hinting at something, often of a sensual, provocative, or controversial nature. When used to describe a person, it suggests an air of being seductive, enticing, or having an underlying sexual undertone. In a broader sense, "suggestive" can refer to anything that triggers associations or stimulates thoughts or interpretations beyond its literal meaning. It can apply to various forms of art, literature, advertising, or even gestures and body language. However, it is important to note that "suggestive" does not explicitly state or affirm something, leaving room for interpretation or personal inference. The adjective implies an indirect or subtle influence, leaving the audience or observer to draw their own conclusions or make connections based on the suggestive cues or elements present.

Example sentences containing suggestive

1. The artist used suggestive brushstrokes to convey a sense of mystery.
2. The novel contained suggestive scenes that added to its sensuality.
3. His suggestive comments made everyone in the room uncomfortable.
4. The advertisement used suggestive imagery to capture attention.
5. The dance routine included suggestive moves that created a seductive atmosphere.
6. The lyrics of the song were subtly suggestive, leaving room for interpretation.

History and etymology of suggestive

The adjective 'suggestive' is derived from the Latin word 'suggestivus,' which is built upon 'suggestus,' coming from 'suggerere.' This Latin root combines 'sub,' meaning 'under,' and 'gerere,' meaning 'to carry' or 'to bring.' The etymology of 'suggestive' subtly reflects the idea of carrying or bringing forth a particular notion, thought, or feeling, without explicitly stating it. 'Suggestive' has evolved to describe something that evokes or implies a particular idea, thought, or feeling, often through indirect or subtle means. Its etymology suggests the act of subtly conveying meaning or alluding to something without explicitly defining it, aligning with its modern-day usage related to subtle implications.

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Further usage examples of suggestive

1. She wore a suggestive outfit that turned heads wherever she went.
2. The movie had a few suggestive scenes that added to its dramatic tension.
3. The magazine cover featured a suggestive pose by the celebrity.
4. The comedian's jokes were often witty and suggestive, eliciting laughter from the audience.
5. The art exhibition showcased a collection of thought-provoking and suggestive pieces.
6. Her suggestive smile hinted at a hidden agenda.
7. The artwork had a subtle, suggestive quality.
8. His suggestive comments made her uncomfortable.
9. The movie had a few mildly suggestive scenes.
10. The novel's cover art was deemed too suggestive.
11. The lyrics of the song were provocative and suggestive.
12. His body language was quite suggestive of his intentions.
13. The clothing she wore was considered too suggestive for the occasion.
14. The play had a few moments that were deliberately suggestive.
15. The painting's colors and shapes were highly suggestive.
16. The advertisement used suggestive imagery to sell the product.
17. The atmosphere in the room became increasingly suggestive.
18. His suggestive tone of voice raised eyebrows at the meeting.
19. The dancer's movements were sensuous and suggestive.
20. The comedian's jokes were often risqué and suggestive.
21. The text contained a few subtly suggestive metaphors.
22. The film's lighting and cinematography were quite suggestive.
23. The movie's dialogue was filled with innuendo and suggestive language.
24. Her suggestive gestures left no doubt about her intentions.
25. The novel's opening scene was highly suggestive of a mystery to come.