take a hint

Idioms

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.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

I might take a hint and switch to a newly repairable Pixel.

From The Verge • Apr. 9, 2022

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

“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

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023