subtext
UK: ˈsʌbtekst | US: ˈsʌbtekst
n. an underlying or implicit meaning, theme, or message in a text or conversation, not explicitly stated but inferred.
The word "subtext" originates from Latin roots: "sub-" (meaning "under") and "textus" (meaning "woven" or "written content"). The term evolved in English to describe hidden or implied meanings "woven beneath" the surface of a text. This reflects the idea of layered communication, where the explicit words form one layer, while the subtext forms another, often more nuanced, layer.
The subtext of her speech suggested she was unhappy with the decision.
In the novel, the subtext reveals the protagonist's true fears.
His joke had a subtext of sarcasm that not everyone noticed.
The film’s subtext explores themes of isolation and identity.
Pay attention to the subtext in diplomatic negotiations—it often carries the real message.