ほのめかし

noun

hint; intimation; suggestion; inkling

A subtle, indirect indication of something, often used when someone implies or alludes to a fact or feeling without stating it directly.

• 彼かれの言こと葉ばには、辞じ職しょくのほのめかしがあった。

  There was a hint of resignation in his words.

• 彼かの女じょはほのめかしだけで、はっきりとは言いわなかった。

  She only hinted at it and didn't say it clearly.