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
1
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 notesIn plain EnglishThe real, unspoken meaning hiding underneath what is actually said or written.
Common pairings
read the subtext
political subtext
obvious subtext
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Word forms
- Plural
- subtexts
- Third person singular
- subtexts
- Past tense
- subtexted
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.
