You need to read between the lines to understand her.
read between the lines
idiomTo infer a meaning that is not stated explicitly.
Origin
disputed originProbably from glosses and commentaries which were written between the lines and provided the reader with additional information not explicitly stated in the text.
His email was polite, but I read between the lines and knew he was angry.
The diplomat's carefully worded statement offered little on the surface, yet seasoned observers knew to read between the lines for the true message.
- 01
clear one's lines
To clear the ball away from a dangerous position.
- 02
dictated but not read
Dictated, as to a secretary or stenographer, but not proofread by the person who dictated it.
- 03
have one's head read
To have one's mental health assessed, to receive a psychiatric examination.
- 04
quick read
A book, periodical, or other printed matter that is enjoyable to read and can be read quickly.
- 05
read in
To allow access to classified information.
- 06
read lips
To lipread.
- 07
read minds
To read people's minds (in general).
- 08
read oneself in
To read aloud the Thirty-nine Articles and the Declaration of Assent; required of a clergyman of the Church of England when he first officiates in a new benefice.