Subtly suggests (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: IMPLIES
IMPLIES is the answer to the crossword clue "Subtly suggests (7)." When someone implies something, they hint at or suggest a meaning without stating it directly or explicitly.
Understanding the clue
- To imply means to express or indicate something indirectly through inference rather than through explicit statement.
- The word perfectly fits situations where someone subtly suggests an idea, leaving others to read between the lines and understand the underlying message without it being openly declared.
Related Crossword Clues
- Similar clues include "hints at," "suggests indirectly," "indicates without stating," or "reads between the lines." The opposite would be "states explicitly" or "declares openly."
- Understanding this distinction helps solvers recognize when constructors are looking for words about indirect communication versus direct statement.
Quick Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Word length matters: The (7) indicates exactly seven letters, which helps narrow possibilities
- Look for communication verbs: Clues about suggesting or hinting often involve words like implies, alludes, or infers
- Consider synonyms: Think of different ways to express indirect communication
- Check crossing letters: Use intersecting answers to confirm your solution
- Context clues: Words like "subtly" or "indirectly" signal you need a nuanced term
Subtly suggests (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: What's the difference between "implies" and "infers"?
A: "Implies" is what a speaker does (suggesting meaning), while "infers" is what a listener does (drawing conclusions). The speaker implies; the audience infers.
Q: Are there other 7-letter words meaning "subtly suggests"?
A: Yes, though less common. "Alludes" (7 letters) and "connotes" (8 letters) are close alternatives, but "implies" remains the most frequent answer.
Q: Why do crosswords use indirect description clues?
A: They add difficulty and elegance. Direct clues like "definition of implies" would be too easy, so constructors use descriptive phrases that test vocabulary knowledge.
Q: Can "implies" have negative connotations?
A: Sometimes. While neutral in definition, the word often appears when someone suggests something unpleasant without saying it directly, though it's equally used in neutral or positive contexts.
