implied

[im-plahyd]

adjective

1. involved, indicated, or suggested without being directly or explicitly stated; tacitly understood.

   an implied rebuke; an implied compliment.

implied

/ ɪmˈplaɪd, ɪmˈplaɪɪdlɪ /

adjective

1. hinted at or suggested; not directly expressed

   an implied criticism

Other Word Forms

• impliedly adverb
• unimplied adjective
• well-implied adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of implied¹

First recorded in 1520–30; imply + -ed ²

Example Sentences

It added a Strongbow ad should be banned on the grounds that it "implied that alcohol might be indispensable or take priority in life".

From BBC

Unlike outsourcing which was essentially a story of support functions being contracted to India, GCCs also have an "implied sovereignty angle", says Mr Ahuja.

From BBC

Cutler was charged with DUI, possession of a handgun while under the influence, failure to exercise due care and violating implied consent.

From Los Angeles Times

Barrett called the decision that granted a nationwide right to abortion via an understanding of the Constitution’s implied right to privacy an “exercise of raw judicial power.”

From Salon

What makes her laugh, though, is remembering a complaint from a furious mum who accused her of ruining her daughter's childhood because one of her books implied that 11-year-olds no longer believe in Father Christmas.

From BBC

Related Words

• hidden 
• implicit 
• indirect 
• latent 
• lurking 
• tacit 
• unspoken