Definition
示意 means to give a clear, deliberate non-verbal signal (a nod, gesture, or look) to communicate something. It is more explicit and intentional than 暗示 (àn shì), which is a subtle hint that may not be immediately obvious. Use 示意 when you want someone to understand a specific instruction without words.
verb
to hintto signalto indicate (non-verbally or subtly)
Easily confused
- 事宜shì yísound-alikematters; arrangements
- 适宜shì yísound-alikesuitable; appropriate
Examples
- 示意，。Tā xiàng wǒ shì yì le yíxià, wǒ jiù míngbai le.He signaled to me, and I understood right away.
- 示意。Lǎoshī shì yì dàjiā ānjìng xiàlai.The teacher gestured for everyone to quiet down.
- 示意。Tā yòng shǒu shì yì wǒmen gēnshàng tā.She used her hand to indicate that we should follow her.
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