take a hint

Idioms  

1. Also, take the hint. Accept an indirect or covert suggestion, as in Evelyn took the hint and quietly left the room. This idiom was first recorded in 1711.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

take a hint

What do you use when you’re trying to dissuade a house guest that just won’t take a hint?

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 9, 2026

For seeming unable to take a hint, Judge Beetlestone risks a rebuke.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 22, 2025

Of course, not one to take a hint, Kelly felt the need to continue the feud she'd initiated, even after Osaka had opted for the high road and deleted her tweet and blocked Kelly.

From Salon ● Jul. 20, 2021

And then there’s the badgering, the refusing to take a hint, the let-me-use-your-phone-to-call-this-guy-who-won’t-pick-up-when-I-call, the violation of Brandon’s trust.

From Slate ● Sep. 14, 2020

“Thanks,” I say, without making eye contact, and I shift away, hoping he can take a hint.

From "A Good Kind of Trouble" by Lisa Moore Ramée