Reading Theme:
Implication: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：implied suggestion (implication)
implication
/ˌɪm.plɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/
n.
Something that is suggested or understood from what is said, without being directly stated.
implied suggestion
➕
/ɪmˈplaɪd səˈdʒɛs.tʃən/
n.
A meaning that is conveyed indirectly through speech or action, without being explicitly stated.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
Derived from Latin 'implicare', meaning 'to entangle' or 'to involve'. It combines 'im-' (in) and 'plicare' (to fold), suggesting something folded in or involved.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'implication' as an 'implied' message – like a secret folded into words, not openly stated but understood.
📖 Example
When the boss said "Your work has been amazing lately," the implication was that I should take a break.
This example demonstrates how a compliment can carry the hidden suggestion that one should rest.
🔗 Collocations
carry an implication – to have an indirect or hidden meaning
understand the implication – to grasp the unspoken message in communication
🔄 Synonyms
insinuation (n.) – an indirect suggestion, often with a negative connotation
hint (n.) – a slight or indirect indication or clue
🚫 Antonyms
declaration (n.) – a formal or explicit statement of fact or opinion
🌱 Derivatives
imply (v.) – to suggest something indirectly without stating it directly
implicative (adj.) – suggesting something in an indirect manner
📖 Cultural Story
The word 'implication' originates from the Latin 'implicatio', from 'implicare' (to involve). It entered English in the 15th century and is central in logic to denote conditional relationships, as well as in everyday communication for indirect meanings. In modern usage, it is frequently employed in legal, philosophical, and business contexts to discuss inferred consequences or suggestions.
Meaning 2：possible consequence (implication)
implication
/ˌɪm.plɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/
n.
A possible future effect or result of an action or decision.
possible consequence
➕
/ˈpɒs.ə.bəl ˈkɒn.sɪ.kwəns/
n.
A potential effect or result that may arise from a specific action, decision, or event.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The government must consider the economic implications of building a new highway through the town.
This example underscores the importance of evaluating potential outcomes in policy-making.
🔗 Collocations
consider the implications – to think about the potential effects or consequences
far-reaching implications – effects that are extensive or have significant impact
🔄 Synonyms
consequence (n.) – a result or effect of an action or condition
ramification (n.) – a complex or often unwelcome consequence of an action
🚫 Antonyms
cause (n.) – something that gives rise to an action, event, or condition
🌱 Derivatives
implicate (v.) – to show someone or something to be involved in a situation, often negatively
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