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Glossary

Subtext

Subtext is the meaning beneath the words, the thoughts and feelings a character does not say aloud but which shape how the lines are played.

Audiences pick it up from an actor's vocal choices, movement and the way they use the space around them. Actors often search a scene for it when preparing sides.

In use

The line is polite, but the subtext is that she wants him to leave.

Last updated 4 Oct 2026

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