imply

UK: /ɪmˈplaɪ/ | US: /ɪmˈplaɪ/

Definition

  1. vt. to suggest or express something indirectly

  2. vt. to involve or entail as a necessary consequence

Structure
im <in>ply <fold>im <in>ply <fold>
Etymology

The word "imply" originates from the Latin implicare ("to entangle, involve"), combining in- (into) and plicare (to fold). Over time, it evolved in Old French as emplier and Middle English as implien, shifting from physical "folding" to metaphorical "hinting" or "suggesting." The logic reflects how layered meanings unfold indirectly, like folded layers revealing hidden content.

Examples

  1. Her tone seemed to imply disapproval.

  2. The data implies a correlation between the two variables.

  3. He didn’t say it directly, but his words implied an apology.

  4. Silence often implies consent.

  5. The contract implies certain obligations for both parties.