暗示

あんじ

hint, suggestion

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

The word "暗示" (あんじ) means "hint" or "suggestion," often implying something indirectly rather than stating it explicitly. It is commonly used in formal or literary contexts to describe subtle indications or suggestions.

Common Contexts

"暗示" is frequently used when someone wants to imply something without saying it outright, such as in conversations, literature, or media. It can refer to verbal hints, symbolic signs, or even subconscious suggestions.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 暗示を含む (あんじをふくむ): to contain a hint or suggestion
  • 暗示する (あんじする): to hint or suggest
  • 暗示的な表現 (あんじてきなひょうげん): an indicative or suggestive expression

Register and Nuance

This word is more formal and often appears in written language or serious discussions. It is less common in casual daily conversation where simpler words like "ヒント" (hint) might be used.

Common Mistakes

Learners sometimes confuse "暗示" with "示唆" (しさ), which also means "suggestion" but is more about proposing ideas or advice. "暗示" focuses more on indirect or subtle hints rather than explicit suggestions.

Example Sentences

かれのことばにはなにかあんじがふくまれているようだ。

It seems that his words contain some kind of hint.

このえいがはみらいのきけんをあんじしている。

This movie hints at future dangers.

かのじょはちょくせついわずにあんじでつたえた。

She conveyed it by hinting instead of saying it directly.