between the lines
IdiomsExample Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The litany of complaints continues, though, and reading between the lines, it’s clear the root of the men’s fury is rejection.
From Slate • May 26, 2026
“Michael” is bizarre because everything left unsaid still lingers between the lines, sandwiched between the formidable melodies of his greatest hits, like toxic ooze leaking out from the middle of two slices of Wonderbread.
From Salon • Apr. 25, 2026
Rooney added Mikel Arteta's side must "be tough to break down, make sure there's no gaps between the lines and try to hit them on the break".
From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026
He is interested in whatever nonverbal reaction you have between the lines.
From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026
I’m reading a little between the lines here, but I actually don’t think Blue has ever kissed anyone.
From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.