imply

American  

[im-plahy] / ɪmˈplaɪ /

verb (used with object)

implied, implying

1. to indicate or suggest without being explicitly stated.

   His words implied a lack of faith.

2. (of words) to signify or mean.

3. to involve as a necessary circumstance.

   Speech implies a speaker.

   Synonyms:

   demand, require

4. Obsolete. to enfold.

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imply British  

/ ɪmˈplaɪ /

verb

1. to express or indicate by a hint; suggest

   what are you implying by that remark?

2. to suggest or involve as a necessary consequence

3. logic to enable (a conclusion) to be inferred

4. obsolete to entangle or enfold

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Usage

See infer.

Other Word Forms

• reimply verb (used with object)
• superimply verb (used with object)

Etymology

Origin of imply

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English implien, emplien, from Middle French emplier, from Latin implicāre; implicate

Example Sentences

The company also guided for revenue growth of about 20% over the current quarter, implying a slowdown in growth.

From Barron's

At least, they have a way to judge how each stock did relative to expectations: Lower than the implied straddle move and things were OK; larger, and something surprised them.

From Barron's

At least, they have a way to judge how each stock did relative to expectations: Lower than the implied straddle move and things were OK, larger, and something surprised them.

From Barron's

The new target implies that shares can rise 16% from their level as of Friday’s close.

From Barron's

She said it could also breach implied term of mutual trust and confidence in an employment relationship "irrespective of it being set out on paper in a contract of employment".

From BBC

Related Words

• entail
• hint
• involve
• mention
• signify
• suggest