suggestive

/sə'dʤestiv/

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Word: Suggestive

Part of Speech: Adjective

Basic Definition:

The word "suggestive" means something that tends to hint at or imply something else, often something that is not directly stated. It can also refer to something that suggests inappropriate or indecent ideas.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "suggestive" to describe actions, words, or images that give a clear idea or hint about something else. It is often followed by "of" when you want to specify what is being suggested.

Examples:

1. Basic Example:

   • "Her dress was quite suggestive, making some people uncomfortable."
   • (This means her dress hinted at something inappropriate.)

2. With "of":

   • "The artwork was suggestive of ancient rituals."
   • (This means the artwork hinted or implied something about ancient rituals.)

Advanced Usage:

In advanced contexts, "suggestive" may describe tones, gestures, or statements that imply meanings beyond the surface level. For instance, a suggestive smile might indicate more than just friendliness.

Word Variants:

• Suggestively (adverb): This means doing something in a way that suggests or implies something.

  • Example: "He spoke suggestively about their relationship."

• Suggestiveness (noun): This refers to the quality of being suggestive.

  • Example: "The suggestiveness of her tone made everyone curious."

Different Meanings:

1. Indecent Meaning: Often, "suggestive" relates to hints of something sexual or inappropriate.
2. Implicative Meaning: It can also mean something that indicates or points to a deeper meaning or idea, like a statement that implies fear or concern.

Synonyms:

• Implicative
• Allusive
• Indicative
• Hinting
• Insinuating

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

Although "suggestive" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs, it can be used in phrases like: - "Read between the lines" (to understand the deeper meaning that is not directly stated). - "Hint at" (to suggest something indirectly).

Summary:

"Suggestive" is a versatile word that can describe anything from a hint of impropriety to a deeper, more meaningful implication.

Academic

Adjective

1. tending to suggest something improper or indecent
   • a suggestive nod
   • suggestive poses
2. (usually followed by `of') pointing out or revealing clearly
   • actions indicative of fear
3. tending to suggest or imply
   • artifacts suggestive of an ancient society
   • an implicative statement

Synonyms

• indicative
• indicatory
• revelatory
• significative
• implicative