innuendo
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “innuendo” mean?
noun.an allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in literary or rhetorical passages that explore themes of communication, persuasion, or social dynamics. It implies a subtle, often negative implication behind a statement, suggesting underlying motives or criticisms, which distinguishes it from more straightforward terms like "comment" or "suggestion."
Common Confusions
Innuendo implies a subtle or indirect criticism or suggestion, while overture usually suggests a more explicit proposal or introduction intended to initiate a discussion or relationship.
Do not choose innuendo if the context emphasizes straightforwardness or clarity rather than an allusive or oblique remark or hint, typically a suggestive or disparaging one.
Example Sentences
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She made a devious innuendo about her husband, who was embarrassed.