IPA

Dictionary definition of allude

To make an indirect reference or suggestion to something without stating it directly.
"The song's lyrics allude to a failed relationship."

Detailed meaning of allude

An allusion is an implied or indirect reference to something else. It can be a literary device used in literature, music, or other forms of art, where the author or artist makes a reference to something else, such as a historical event, a person, or a work of literature, in order to add depth or meaning to their own work. For example, a song might allude to a famous poem, or a book might allude to a historical event. In conversation, when someone alludes to something, they bring up a topic or an idea without explicitly mentioning it, giving the listener the chance to infer what is meant. In other words, allude means to hint or suggest something without stating it outright.

Example sentences of allude

1. He frequently makes references that allude to his past experiences.
2. The painting contains symbols that subtly allude to the artist's personal struggles.
3. The author's choice of words in the poem subtly alludes to themes of love and loss.
4. The politician strategically drops hints that allude to upcoming policy changes.
5. The movie's plot cleverly alludes to a famous historical event without directly mentioning it.
6. Her cryptic message seems to allude to a hidden treasure.

History and etymology of allude

The verb 'allude' derives its etymology from the Latin word 'alludere,' which is a combination of 'ad,' meaning 'to,' and 'ludere,' meaning 'to play' or 'to jest.' In Latin, 'alludere' originally meant to play with or jest about something, often through indirect or playful references. Over time, the word evolved to include the concept of making indirect references or suggestions without explicitly stating something. This shift in meaning reflects the idea of language as a kind of playful manipulation or hinting, where the speaker or writer engages the audience by alluding to a subject rather than directly stating it. As 'allude' entered the English language, it retained this sense of making indirect references or suggestions, emphasizing the playful and indirect nature of communication that the word's etymology suggests.

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Further usage examples of allude

1. The comedian skillfully incorporates jokes that allude to pop culture references.
2. The lyrics of the song slyly allude to a forbidden love affair.
3. The advertisement cleverly alludes to the product's effectiveness without making direct claims.
4. The novel's ending leaves room for interpretation, allowing readers to allude to their own conclusions.
5. The professor's lecture frequently alludes to real-life examples to enhance understanding.
6. The artist's abstract sculpture hints at various emotions without explicitly alluding to any one feeling.
7. The detective's comments subtly allude to a possible suspect without naming them.
8. The architect's design alludes to the surrounding natural landscape.
9. The historical novel contains subtle references that allude to significant events of the era.
10. The poet's verses skillfully allude to the beauty of nature.
11. The advertisement cleverly alludes to the product's popularity among celebrities.
12. The movie's dialogue often contains witty lines that allude to classic films.
13. The politician's speech is carefully crafted to allude to the needs of different demographics.
14. The children's book uses playful illustrations that allude to well-known fairy tales.