noun

subtext

Subtext (noun) means a meaning implied beneath the surface of a text, speech, or conversation, not stated outright. Example: “The dialogue was polite, but the subtext was pure hostility.”

noun

A meaning implied beneath the surface of a text, speech, or conversation, not stated outright.

"The dialogue was polite, but the subtext was pure hostility."

"Critics loved the film's subtext about class and ambition."

How to use subtext

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe real, unspoken meaning hiding underneath what is actually said or written.

Common pairings

read the subtext political subtext obvious subtext

Word forms

subtexted past tense, subtexts plural, subtexts singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The dialogue was polite, but the _____ was pure hostility.

Etymology

From sub- ("beneath") plus text.

Frequently asked questions

What does “subtext” mean?

The word “subtext” means a meaning implied beneath the surface of a text, speech, or conversation, not stated outright. In plain terms, the real, unspoken meaning hiding underneath what is actually said or written.

How do you use “subtext” in a sentence?

Here is “subtext” used in a sentence: “The dialogue was polite, but the subtext was pure hostility.”

What part of speech is “subtext”?

“Subtext” is a noun.

What is the meaning of subtext?

"subtext" (noun) means a meaning implied beneath the surface of a text, speech, or conversation, not stated outright.