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Definitions

suggestive

[suhg-jes-tiv, suh-] / səgˈdʒɛs tɪv, sə- /
ADJECTIVE
signifying
Synonyms
STRONGEST
evocative expressive intriguing redolent reminiscent symbolic
WEAK
evocatory giving an inkling indicative pregnant remindful significative symptomatic
Antonyms
WEAK
clean meaningless moral simple unprovocative
ADJECTIVE
dirty, vulgar
Synonyms
STRONGEST
erotic indecent obscene off-color provocative racy rude seductive sexy
WEAK
bawdy blue broad immodest improper indelicate prurient ribald risqué shady tempting titillating unseemly wicked
Antonyms
STRONGEST
clean decent dull modest moral nice pure upright
WEAK
meaningless simple unprovocative

Usage

What are other ways to say suggestive? The adjective suggestive implies an indirect or covert conveying of a meaning, sometimes mentally stimulating, sometimes verging on impropriety or indecency: a suggestive story or remark. Expressive suggests conveying, or being capable of conveying, a thought, intention, emotion, etc., in an effective or vivid manner: an expressive gesture. Meaningful and significant imply an underlying and unexpressed thought whose existence is plainly shown although its precise nature is left to conjecture. Meaningful implies a secret and intimate understanding between the persons involved: Meaningful looks passed between them. Significant suggests conveying important or hidden meaning: On hearing this statement, he gave the officers a significant glance. 

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Consultant gynaecologist Donna Ghosh, said: "What we're really focusing on is reducing the delay in diagnosis. Patients who are suffering from symptoms that are suggestive of endometriosis will reach that diagnosis sooner."

From BBC • Mar. 11, 2026

For example, errors in memory or suggestive questioning during eyewitness interviews can influence how events are remembered.

From Science Daily • Mar. 11, 2026

Also evident here is his preternatural gift for widescreen compositions, as he uses negative space to suggestive effect and often incorporates telling details at the edges of the frame.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 29, 2025

“Core goods prices may be slightly stronger, but we do not expect much abnormal strength that would be suggestive of substantial tariff pass through.”

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

I wasn’t trying to be suggestive or anything; I just got kind of tired when I had to stand a lot.

From "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.