Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Read between the lines
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "read between the lines" is understand what is implied but not stated directly.
The other options are incorrect.
- Reading carefully each and every word written does not mean understanding what is implied but not stated directly. Reading carefully means to read each word carefully and thoughtfully.
- Reading very slowly enjoying each line does not mean understanding what is implied but not stated directly. Reading slowly means to read each line slowly and deliberately.
- Reading loudly each and every word given in the sentence does not mean understanding what is implied but not stated directly. Reading loudly means to read each word loudly and clearly.
The idiom "read between the lines" comes from the idea of reading between the lines of a piece of text to find the hidden meaning. In the same way, to read between the lines means to understand the implicit meaning of something, even though it is not explicitly stated. For example, you might say that you can read between the lines and tell that your friend is not happy with their job.