read between the lines
To understand a hidden meaning that is not stated directly.
Example: He said he was fine, but I could read between the lines.
B210 words · Upper-intermediate
Conversation Idioms vocabulary — B2
Conversation idioms for softening bad news and reading between the lines, with phrases like beat around the bush, at the end of the day and a slip of the tongue.
10 questions
Words in this set
10beat around the bush
To avoid saying something directly, delaying the real point.
Example:
Stop beating around the bush and tell me what happened.
for what it's worth
A phrase used to offer an opinion while admitting it may not matter much.
Example:
For what it's worth, I thought your speech was excellent.
the bottom line
The most important fact or conclusion, after everything else is considered.
Example:
The bottom line is that we need more volunteers by Friday.
at the end of the day
Used to introduce the final, most important point after considering everything.
Example:
At the end of the day, it's your decision to make.
as far as I know
Used to state something the speaker believes is true, while admitting they might be wrong.
Example:
As far as I know, the shop closes at six.
put it this way
Said before explaining or rephrasing something in a simpler or clearer way.
Example:
Put it this way — we're not going on holiday this year.
have a word with someone
To speak to someone privately, often to correct or address a problem.
Example:
The teacher wants to have a word with you after class.
get the wrong end of the stick
To completely misunderstand a situation or what someone meant.
Example:
I think you've got the wrong end of the stick — I never said that.
a slip of the tongue
Something said by accident that you did not mean to say.
Example:
Calling her by the wrong name was just a slip of the tongue.
