noun

inkling

/ˈɪŋklɪŋ/ · say it: ING·kling

a slight suspicion or hint

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

1. (noun) a slight hint or suggestion of something

2. (noun) a vague idea or suspicion about something

Examples

1. I had an inkling that she was planning a surprise party.
2. He didn't have the slightest inkling of what was about to happen.

How to use inkling

Inkling refers to a dim, uncertain perception or knowledge of something rather than clear understanding. It typically suggests something half-guessed or barely perceived, often used with 'have' or 'have not'. The word carries a slightly literary or formal tone and is common in both written and spoken English, though more frequent in narratives or reflective contexts.

Common phrases

have an inkling
give someone an inkling
not the slightest inkling
an inkling of
vague inkling

Synonyms

hint · suggestion · suspicion · insinuation · glimmer

Opposites

certainty · confirmation · proof

Word family

inklings (plural)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'inkling' to mean a precise idea or definite hunch, but it specifically implies vagueness and lack of clarity, not strong conviction.

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