What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hunch
Example
I have a hunch that it's going to rain today. [hunch: noun]
Example
She hunched over her desk, deep in thought. [hunched: verb]
inkling
Example
I had an inkling that he was lying to me. [inkling: noun]
Example
The article gave me an inkling of what to expect at the conference. [inkling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inkling is more commonly used than hunch in everyday language. Inkling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hunch is less common and typically associated with informal language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hunch and inkling?
Inkling is more formal than hunch and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while hunch is typically associated with a casual and informal tone.