Meaning & use
get a hint
Last updated
Meanings
phraseidiominformal
to receive a small piece of useful information that helps you guess or understand something
Grammar: Used as a verb phrase; often followed by 'about' or 'from'.
Patterns
- get a hint about something
- get a hint from someone
I didn't know the answer, so I asked the teacher if I could get a hint.
She got a hint from her friend about what to buy for the party.
If you get a hint that something is wrong, tell me immediately.
phraseidiominformal
to receive a small sign or clue that suggests something without saying it directly
Grammar: Often used with 'that' to introduce what the hint suggests.
Patterns
- get a hint that ...
He got a hint that she was upset from the tone of her voice.
We got a hint that the project might be delayed.
Common combinations
- get a hint from someone
- I got a hint from my brother about the surprise party.
- get a hint about something
- Can you get a hint about the exam topics?
- drop a hint
- She dropped a hint that she wanted a new phone.
- take a hint
- He didn't take the hint and kept talking.
Synonyms and how they differ
- get a clue
- Stronger and often suggests you should already know; 'get a hint' is gentler.
- receive a tip
- More formal and usually about practical advice, not a guess.
Word family
Commonly confused: get a hint or get a tip?
get a hint vs get a tip
A 'tip' is often a piece of practical advice or extra money; a 'hint' is a clue to help you guess.
Practice
Which sentence uses 'get a hint' correctly?
Choose one answer.
'Get a hint about' is the correct pattern. 'Hint to' is not used; 'hint of' means a small amount; 'hint for' is not standard.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “get a hint”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.