Implication
/ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən/
Definitions
3 meaningsThe conclusion that can be drawn from something, although it is not explicitly stated.
/ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən/
Something suggested or indirectly expressed.
His words carried a subtle implication that he wasn't happy with the decision.
💡 Simply: It's like when you don't say something directly, but people can still figure it out. For example, if you're late for dinner, the implication is you might be in trouble!
👶 For kids: It means when something is hinted at, but not said out loud.
More Examples
The study revealed the implications of climate change on coastal communities.
Her tone of voice gave the implication that she was disappointed.
How It's Used
"The implication of his silence was that he agreed."
"The legal implications of the contract were complex."
A possible effect or result of an action or decision.
/ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən/
A possible consequence of an action or decision.
The environmental implications of the new factory were concerning.
💡 Simply: Think about what will happen because of something. Like, if you study hard, the implication is you'll get good grades!
👶 For kids: It means what will happen because of what you did.
More Examples
We need to consider the long-term implications of this investment.
The manager considered the ethical implications before making a decision.
How It's Used
"The financial implications of the merger were significant."
"The political implications of the new policy were widely debated."
The act of implicating or the state of being implicated; involvement.
/ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃən/
The state of being involved in or connected to something.
The report clearly showed his implication in the cover-up.
💡 Simply: It means being connected or involved in something. Like if you're friends with someone who did something wrong, you might have some implication in it.
👶 For kids: It's like being part of something.
More Examples
She resented the implication that she was somehow responsible.
His close relationship with the suspect led to his implication in the crime.
How It's Used
"He denied any implication in the scandal."
"The implication of the witness was critical to the case."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
By implication
Without being directly stated; indirectly.
"He didn't say it directly, but by implication, he was criticizing my work."
With implications
Having consequences or ramifications.
"The new policy came with serious implications for the economy."
From Middle French *impliquer*, from Latin *implicare* (“to entwine, involve, connect”), from *in-* (“in, into”) + *plicare* (“to fold”).
The word 'implication' has been used since the 16th century, evolving from its roots in Latin to describe the connection between ideas or actions and their consequences.
Memory tip
Think of it as what is *in-plied* or folded inside the message.
Word Origin
"to entwine, involve, connect"