Hintingly

Hintingly is an adverb that describes the act of conveying information or suggesting something indirectly, often through subtle cues, veiled references, or suggestive expressions, rather than stating it explicitly. It implies a degree of subtlety, leaving room for interpretation by the recipient, and the intention is to convey an idea without necessarily making a direct statement. It is frequently used when speaking cautiously or trying not to offend. A hintingly conveyed message often relies on shared knowledge, implied assumptions, or unspoken understandings. The implication is that the listener, reader, or observer is expected to 'read between the lines'. The usage is often found in contexts of diplomacy, negotiation, and the expression of complex emotions where direct communication is undesirable or inappropriate. It encompasses the idea of subtle guidance or suggestions intended to influence behavior or thought.

Hintingly meaning with examples

• She looked at the empty seat at the dinner table hintingly, expecting her son to understand that his presence was desired and that he was late. This indirect communication allowed her to avoid a direct reprimand and maintain a pleasant atmosphere while conveying her displeasure with his absence.
• The detective questioned the witness hintingly, subtly probing for inconsistencies in their story without making any direct accusations. This approach enabled him to gather information without alarming the suspect, thereby preventing the witness from becoming defensive or concealing further details.
• The author wrote hintingly, interweaving the plot with symbols and suggestive details, inviting the readers to discover the deeper meaning on their own. The goal was to foster the reader's engagement, rather than explicitly stating themes.
• During the tense negotiations, the diplomat spoke hintingly, suggesting potential compromises and outcomes without committing to any firm position. This cautious strategy allowed for flexibility and left room for maneuverability, which was important for a successful agreement.