subtext

[US]/'sʌbtekst/
[UK]/'sʌb'tɛkst/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

n. underlying meaning or implication, implicit message.

Example Sentences

The movie's subtext explores themes of isolation and loneliness.

She could sense the subtext of his words, even though he never explicitly said what he meant.

The subtext of their conversation hinted at unresolved tension between them.

The subtext of the painting conveyed a sense of longing and nostalgia.

His jokes always had a subtext of sarcasm that not everyone picked up on.

The subtext of the novel explored complex issues of identity and self-discovery.

Their body language revealed a subtext of tension and unease.

The subtext of the advertisement suggested a message of empowerment and self-confidence.

The subtext of the play delved into themes of betrayal and trust.

Her smile had a subtext of sadness that only a few people noticed.

Real-world Examples

And there's so much subtext behind all of it.

Source: Actor Dialogue (Bilingual Selection)

Then again, I don't know what subtext is.

Source: Young Sheldon - Season 1

That's her text, but what was her subtext?

Source: Modern Family - Season 10

That's the sort of subtext of this whole thing.

Source: Coffee Tasting Guide

It reeks of awkward subtext. You spent the night in my bed, there was cuddling.

Source: The Vampire Diaries Season 1

In other words, sometimes you need the subtext-in this case, literally the material under the writing.

Source: Scientific 60 Seconds - Scientific American May 2021 Compilation

And the moon scene with Lopakhin and Varia is a beautiful example of the power of subtext.

Source: Crash Course in Drama

Moving deeper into the subtext, there is an unsettling relatability here that goes beyond the terror of nuclear annihilation.

Source: Deep Dive into the Movie World (LSOO)

They are also able to watch the show for hours on end, which makes the subtext and themes more apparent.

Source: New York Times

Don't tell me after 18 years, you can't Read Waldorf subtext.

Source: Gossip Girl Season 3

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