示唆する

• Reading: しさする
• Romaji: shisasuru
• Kanji breakdown: 示 (shi/ji) — show, indicate; 唆 (sa) — tempt, suggest, incite
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.sa.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To suggest; to imply; to hint at something without stating it directly.

A する verb used in formal and academic contexts to mean suggesting or implying. Unlike 提案する (to propose), 示唆する carries the nuance of indirect suggestion or hinting at a possibility. Common in news, research papers, and formal discussions. The noun form 示唆 is frequently used with を受ける (to receive a suggestion) and に富む (to be rich in suggestions).

Examples

1. その研究結果は新しい治療法の可能性を示唆している。 The research findings suggest the possibility of a new treatment method.
2. 彼の発言は辞任の意向を示唆するものだった。 His remarks implied that he intended to resign.
3. 先生から示唆を受けて論文のテーマを変更した。 I changed my thesis topic after receiving a suggestion from my professor.

Usage Guide

Context: academic, news, research

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 示 (shi, to show/indicate) + 唆 (sa, to tempt/suggest). The combination conveys showing something indirectly, guiding someone toward a conclusion without explicit statement.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal