Insinuate

To imply or suggest something in an indirect or subtle manner, often with the intention of conveying suspicion or criticism. This term can also refer to introducing oneself into a situation gradually and stealthily. It is commonly used in contexts where someone wishes to express something negative without stating it outright, often leading to ambiguity or tension.

Insinuate meaning with examples

• During the meeting, Sarah began to insinuate that her coworker was not contributing equally to the project. Her comments, while vague, left the rest of the team feeling uneasy about their colleague's commitment, thereby creating an atmosphere of distrust and suspicion.
• The journalist chose to insinuate that the politician's recent policies were motivated by personal gain rather than public interest. By framing her article with subtle hints and loaded language, she shaped public perception without directly accusing him, leaving readers to draw their own conclusions.
• When Mark insinuated that Jenna had been manipulating their friendship for personal benefit, it caused an immediate rift. He didn't address his concerns directly, instead opting for a passive-aggressive approach that led to misunderstandings and hurt feelings between them.
• In her critique of the novel, the book reviewer began to insinuate that the author had borrowed heavily from earlier works. By using phrases like 'echoes of classics' and 'suggestive similarities,' she cast doubt on the originality of the book without making explicit accusations.
• At the dinner party, Tom's offhand comments began to insinuate that his friend was less successful than he claimed. Although he smiled while speaking, the implications of his words created an awkward tension among the guests, who were unsure how to respond.