intimation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
intimation Word Meanings
- a subtle or indirect suggestion
- an announcement or hint
- the act of making something known
intimation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
intimation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɪn.tɪˈmeɪ.ʃən/
US
/ˌɪn.təˈmeɪ.ʃən/
intimation Word Etymology
Root: in- (not) + timare (to make known); Historical origin: Latin, through Old French to English; Memory image: Imagine a quiet whisper in a room hinting at a secret, which represents how intimations are subtle signs of something unspoken.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Intimation is a subtle, often indirect hint or sign that something may be true or will happen, without a direct statement. In everyday English, we use it to describe a quiet suggestion, a preliminary notice, or an announcement that stops short of a formal reveal. It carries nuance: something hinted at, not confirmed; a soft lead-in rather than a hard declaration. People might perceive an intimation as polite and cautious, especially in professional or legal contexts where stating things outright could be inappropriate. The word invites curiosity, asking listeners to infer meaning from context, tone, and prior knowledge rather than from explicit wording.
Usage Reminders
- Intimation is a soft hint, not a firm declaration. It suggests possibility, not certainty. Often used in professional or formal contexts. It relies on tone and context more than explicit wording. It is distinct from direct announcements. Do not replace with 'indication' in all cases. Pair with context cues to convey subtlety. Avoid using 'intimate' (as a verb) when you mean 'intimation'.
Common Misconceptions
- It means a formal announcement.
- Intimation and indication are always interchangeable.
- It only appears in negative contexts.
- It is primarily legal jargon.
- It implies certainty.
Thinking Differences
Intimation in English often signals a hedge between hint and formal notice; learners may over-interpret a soft tone as a stronger promise or misread context as certainty.
Learning Tips
- Note the difference between a hint and a formal notice.
- Pair intimation with context clues (tone, implicatures).
- Avoid confusing intimation with intimate (false friend risk).
- Use with collocations like 'intimation of' or 'give/intimate an intimation'.
- Practice paraphrasing: replace with 'indication' or 'hint' where appropriate.
- Listen for hedging language that signals uncertainty.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'intimation' mean?
A.A strong refusal
B.A loud announcement
C.A hint or suggestion
D.An irrelevant comment
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct sentence that uses 'intimation'.
A.Her intimation of disinterest was clear when she walked away.
B.The loud music was an intimation that the party had started.
C.He gave an intimation that he would not attend the meeting.
D.The teacher's intimation was a clear question.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'intimation'?
A.Indication
B.Confusion
C.Exclamation
D.Misinterpretation
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'intimation'?
A.Concealment
B.Secrecy
C.Disclosure
D.Ambiguity
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone gives an intimation?
A.He made a clear announcement about the policy change.
B.She quietly hinted her disbelief in his words.
C.They decided to keep their plans a secret from everyone.
D.The meeting was postponed with no further explanation.
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