inkling
word
Definition
A slight idea or hint about something, especially when it is not clear or certain.
Usage & Nuances
'Inkling' is formal or literary and often used in the negative ('no inkling'). Common collocations: 'have an inkling', 'give an inkling'. Avoid confusing with 'hint', which is broader; 'inkling' implies only a vague or slight idea.
Spanish: indicio - sospecha - idea vagaPortuguese (BR): suspeita - leve noção - pistaPortuguese (PT): suspeita - leve noção - pistaChinese (Simplified): 苗头 - 预感 - 暗示Chinese (Traditional): 苗頭 - 預感 - 暗示Hindi: आभास - संकेत - हल्की जानकारीArabic: إشارة خفية - فكرة مبهمة - حدس
Example Sentences
Do you have any inkling about the answer?
basic
I had no inkling that you were planning a party.
basic
She gave me an inkling that something was wrong.
basic
I started getting an inkling that they wanted to surprise me.
natural
If you have even the slightest inkling, let me know.
natural
I wish I’d had an inkling about the changes before the meeting.
natural