implication

noun

Definition of implicationnext
1
as in inference
an idea that is conveyed often indirectly He took issue with the implication that he could not be trusted with the assignment.

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2
as in outcome
a future condition or occurrence traceable to a cause They were concerned with the possible implications of the new legislation.

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Dissimilar Words
3
as in allegation
a formal claim of criminal wrongdoing against a person Employees were shocked by the implication of the company's CEO in the crime.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of implication There’s a laboriousness to the way the writers set up Camille’s growing disillusionment through multiple scenes where the full implications of the Algorithm’s plans begin to dawn on her. — Noel Murray, Vulture, 17 July 2026 American and international regulators are evaluating the deal for its potential national security implications and impacts to consumers worldwide. — ArsTechnica, 17 July 2026 Understanding the implications of those decisions affords us the opportunity to act differently this time. — Jim Shelton, Fortune, 17 July 2026 Uncertainty for American citizens Beyond legal challenges, the SAVE America Act introduces very real implications for American voters – and the members of Congress who represent them. — Sorelle Wyckoff Gaynor, The Conversation, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for implication
Recent Examples of Synonyms for implication
  1. inference
  2. outcome
  3. allegation
  4. suggestion
  5. ramification
  6. accusation
  7. indication
  8. effect
Noun
  • Nutanix comes at it from private inference and hybrid infrastructure.
    — Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • It is earned through transparency, verification, and a clear distinction between fact, inference, and speculation.
    — Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026
Definition of inference
Noun
  • This area was the same stretch that saw the first two full I-285 blockages, so drivers had a grip on what the outcome could be.
    — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 19 July 2026
  • The idea that his legacy should hinge on the outcome of one game — let alone a game settled on a penalty shootout — was the 1,003rd game of his career for club and country.
    — Oliver Kay, New York Times, 19 July 2026
Definition of outcome
Noun
  • Those claims led to the January 6th attack on the Capitol, and Fox News eventually settled a lawsuit brought by voting company Dominion after its hosts and guests amplified allegations that the company was involved in rigging.
    — Ted Johnson, Deadline, 16 July 2026
  • The British Museum has not responded to requests for comment from ARTnews regarding the investigation’s findings or allegations of political interference from Israeli lobbyists.
    — Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 16 July 2026
Definition of allegation
Noun
  • The suggestion that Pebley’s removal was a sign that the team is performing poorly didn’t sit well with coach Lynne Roberts.
    — Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026
  • There is also a suggestion that a certain kind of acupuncture may help.
    — Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 14 July 2026
Definition of suggestion
Noun
  • Ultimately, Cramer said that if more businesses do not begin reporting tangible returns, the AI skeptics will grow louder, with ramifications for the tech industry’s big spenders.
    — Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 15 July 2026
  • The central theme was the figurative — and literal — significance of passing the ball, including asking audience members to ponder what their passing game is like and the ramifications of being a ball hog.
    — Vahe Gregorian July 10, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2026
Definition of ramification
Noun
  • Reducing legitimate scientific disagreement to accusations of prejudice undermines that effort.
    — Torie Bosch, STAT, 18 July 2026
  • Several troubling new details are included in the articles, including an accusation that ADA leadership knew in advance that members would be handing out copies of the editorial and deliberately set up an ambush by venue security and local police.
    — Jennifer Ouellette, ArsTechnica, 17 July 2026
Definition of accusation
Noun
  • This is a clear indication that price hikes offset occupancy loss.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026
  • If social media and the early reviews are any indication, there is no consensus favorite among supporting actors or actresses, with the possible exception of Samantha Morton.
    — Clayton Davis, Variety, 17 July 2026
Definition of indication
Noun
  • Given Nolan’s famous aversion to AI, there was a relief in knowing this incredible display of creativity came primarily from practical effects and shooting on location.
    — Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
  • Vulnerable communities are at risk Vulnerable communities, including those with health conditions and people who are unhoused or work outdoors, have endured disproportionate effects from the unsafe air quality.
    — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 18 July 2026
Definition of effect

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Cite this Entry

“Implication.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/implication. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on implication

Nglish: Translation of implication for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about implication

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