Answer: hinting

AnswerCrossword Clue
HINTINGNot exactly saying
HINTINGLess than direct
HINTINGSuggesting.
HINTINGIntimating.
HINTINGSuggesting indirectly
hinting(of a thing) Be a slight or possible indication of
hintingSuggest or indicate something indirectly or covertly
hintingan act of hinting