# read between the lines

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/read-between-the-lines
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To infer a meaning that is not stated explicitly.

## Examples

- You need to read between the lines to understand her.
- I read between the lines of his text to see if he is joking.
- His email was polite, but I read between the lines and knew he was angry.
- When the boss mentioned a budget review, we all read between the lines and started looking for new jobs.
- The movie review was mostly positive, but if you read between the lines, the critic clearly disliked the ending.
- My friend says she is too busy to hang out, but I read between the lines and realize she just needs some time alone to recover from work.
- The diplomat's carefully worded statement offered little on the surface, yet seasoned observers knew to read between the lines for the true message.

## Origin

The idiom probably originates from the medieval habit of adding glosses and commentaries between the lines of a primary text. These interlinear notes provided the reader with additional information and interpretations that were not explicitly stated in the original passage. By reading the space between the lines, one could access the intended meaning that the main text alone failed to convey. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.