Implied

Implied is an adjective used to describe something that is suggested or inferred, rather than explicitly stated. It denotes a meaning that is derived from context, circumstance, or interpretation rather than from direct assertion. The term contrasts with explicit or express, where the information is stated outright.

In language and communication, the concept of implication relates to implicature: what a listener infers from what is said, beyond the literal meaning. For example, saying “It’s getting late” may imply that a listener should leave, though no explicit instruction is given. Implied meanings depend on shared context, tone, and expectations between speakers and listeners.

In law and contract theory, implied terms or warranties arise when a provision is not written but is assumed to apply due to statute, custom, or the nature of the relationship. Examples include the implied covenant of good faith in contracts or implied warranties of quality in goods. Implied consent is another concept, where consent is considered given under certain circumstances even without explicit agreement.

In logic and mathematics, implication describes a relationship between statements: if A is true, then B is true (A implies B). This is written as A → B and forms a core part of logical reasoning and conditional statements.

In finance and economics, implied refers to values inferred from market data rather than observed directly, such as implied volatility, which is derived from option prices and reflects the market’s forecast of future volatility.

Overall, implied information depends on interpretation and context, bridging explicit content with inferred significance across various disciplines.