Allusive

The adjective 'allusive' describes something that contains or makes use of allusions; characterized by indirect references. It hints at something without stating it explicitly, often relying on the audience's knowledge or understanding of other works, events, or ideas. This can create a sense of mystery, intrigue, or complexity, inviting the audience to engage with the subject matter on a deeper level, requiring them to make connections and interpret the meaning conveyed through subtle suggestions rather than direct statements. The word itself hints at the rich layers of interpretation that can result from the deliberate use of indirect language and references.

Allusive meaning with examples

• The poet's work was highly allusive, filled with references to classical mythology and historical events. Readers needed a strong background to fully grasp the poem's nuances, as much of the meaning was embedded in the subtle intertextuality and implicit connections. This quality, while challenging for some, enriched the experience for those who could decipher the layers of meaning.
• Her speech was allusive, alluding to past political scandals without directly naming anyone involved. The audience understood the veiled criticisms, aware of the history that the speaker alluded to through suggestive phrases and indirect comparisons. This strategy allowed the speaker to maintain a level of deniability while effectively conveying her message to those who knew the context.
• The novel's setting was allusive, seemingly based on a real city but with significant fictional alterations. The author built an atmosphere of realism and unreality by referencing the city and its history in a way that was tantalizing, never quite explicitly defining the location and the setting, thus provoking curiosity.
• The artist's paintings were intentionally allusive, employing symbolism to depict complex themes. The ambiguous forms and enigmatic imagery allowed for multiple interpretations, leaving the viewer with a sense of wonder. The work refused to spell out any specific meaning and instead encouraged an active engagement, as the artist used references to other cultures to create allusions.