Translation guide
The English word "suggestive" has two main uses: describing something that hints at an idea indirectly, and describing something that implies sexual content. This guide covers both, with natural Japanese expressions for each.
Expressing that something evokes or implies an idea without stating it directly.
a suggestive remark · suggestive of a bygone era
The most direct equivalent for "suggestive" in the sense of hinting at something. Often used in formal or analytical contexts.
彼の言葉は暗示的だった。
His words were suggestive.
A common pattern meaning "reminiscent of" or "suggestive of." Attach to a noun to indicate that something evokes that thing.
Describing words, actions, or clothing that imply sexual content or are intended to arouse.
a suggestive wink · suggestive clothing
Do not use 暗示的 for sexually suggestive contexts. 暗示的 is only for indirect hints, not sexual innuendo. For sexual suggestiveness, use いやらしい, セクシー, or 際どい.
Both mean "suggestive of," but 思わせる is more subjective (it makes me think of...), while 連想させる is more about triggering a common association. 思わせる is slightly more common in everyday speech.
その音楽は夏を思わせる。
The music is suggestive of summer.
Means "to make one associate with" or "to be suggestive of." Slightly more formal than 思わせる.
その形は鳥を連想させる。
The shape is suggestive of a bird.
A verb meaning "to hint at" or "to suggest." Use when someone is subtly implying something.
彼は辞職をほのめかした。
He hinted at resigning.
Commonly used for sexually suggestive behavior or remarks. Can also mean "lewd" or "dirty."
いやらしい冗談はやめてください。
Please stop making suggestive jokes.
Loanword from English, widely used for sexually attractive or suggestive appearance, especially clothing.
彼女はセクシーなドレスを着ていた。
She was wearing a suggestive dress.
Means "risqué" or "borderline." Used for jokes, comments, or clothing that are almost too suggestive.
彼の際どい発言に皆が驚いた。
Everyone was surprised by his suggestive remark.
Slang for "erotic" or "sexy." Very casual and direct.
その写真、ちょっとエロいね。
That photo is a bit suggestive, isn't it?
Formal term meaning "sensational" or "provocative," often used in media contexts.
その広告は扇情的だと批判された。
The advertisement was criticized for being suggestive.