to find a hidden meaning in something said or written.

The report doesn't criticize the research directly, but you can read between the lines that the review committee wasn't impressed.

Usage notes: sometimes used without the verb:

Leo read Melodie's letter again, hoping for some hidden message between the lines.

• bear witness to something
• be as American as apple pie
• be as bald as a coot
• be as black as are is painted
• be as black as it is painted
• be as black as you are is painted
• be as black as you it is painted
• be as blind as a bat
• be as bright as a button
• be as brown as a berry
• be as busy as a bee
• be as clean as a whistle
• be as clear as crystal
• be as clear as day
• be as clear as mud
• be as cold as ice
• be as cool as a cucumber
• be as crazy as they come
• be as [crazy/rich etc.] as they come
• be as cute as a button
• be as daft as a brush
• be as dead as a dodo
• be as dead as a doornail
• save your bacon
• save your breath