1. tending to suggest or hint at something indirectly rather than stating it openly
Usage: formal
2. having a quality that gradually influences or penetrates in a subtle way
Usage: formal

Examples

• Her insinuative remarks left everyone wondering what she really meant.
• The politician’s insinuative comments about his opponent were carefully crafted.
• There was something insinuative about his tone that made her uncomfortable.
• The author’s insinuative writing style required careful reading between the lines.
• His insinuative approach to criticism was more effective than direct confrontation.
• The advertisement used insinuative language to imply benefits without making explicit claims.