How to Write an Innuendo
In order to use an innuendo, it is important to be aware of what can be implied using innocent language and how to imply it subtly; if it’s too obvious, it may not work:
- Think of what it is that you want to hint to.
- Think of an innocent sounding phrase that could hint at it
- Use it with special emphasis on the hinting phrase, or followed by the words, “if you know what I mean.”
For example, imagine your dog has ripped up the living room, shredding blankets, scratching up the couch, and chewing up pillows. In order to be humorous, you use innuendo:
Object of Innuendo:
The dog has made an absolutely terrible mess of the living room.
Sentence using Innuendo:
So, the dog had a little bit of “fun” in the living room.
In this example, “fun” is used to poke fun at the way dogs play, while gently letting your listener know that their home has been destroyed by the dog.
For a second example, imagine your sister is smoking behind your parents’ backs and you want to hint to her that you know.
Object of Innuendo:
Your sister has been smoking cigarettes in secret.
Sentence using Innuendo:
So, I notice you’ve been spending a lot of time standing in the parking lot these days . . .
In this example, “standing in the parking lot” implies smoking if that’s where your sister smokes, and she would definitely understand your meaning.
For a last example, consider a girl who wears very tight clothing to school.
Object of Innuendo:
Clothing considered inappropriate for school.
Sentence using Innuendo:
Anna’s really showing off her assets today.
In this example “showing off” is a polite way of saying that Anna is dressed inappropriately, without directly saying it. Usually, directly criticizing people is considered socially unacceptable and will get you in trouble, so people tend to use innuendo instead. Of course that doesn’t make the comment less mean or sexist, as in the case above, so do be careful. Innuendo can hurt people’s feelings just as much as saying it straight out.
When to Use Innuendo
Because innuendos are primarily used to talk about immoral actions, inappropriate subjects, and negative character traits, they are not appropriate for formal writing, speeches, or conversation. Innuendos should only be used in casual conversations, creative writing, television, movies, and and songs with hidden meanings. They may also be used creatively to communicate humorous, sexual, immoral, or secret ideas.