Hear on the grapevine: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Hear on the grapevine” mean?

"Hear on the grapevine" means to hear rumors or information from unofficial sources.

What context can I use the in?

Example

I heard on the grapevine that they're getting married.

Example

Have you heard on the grapevine about the new project?

Example

She always knows the latest gossip because she hears on the grapevine

Is “Hear on the grapevine” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Hear on the grapevine” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Hear on the grapevine” effectively in context?

You can use "Hear on the grapevine" to talk about hearing rumors or information from unofficial sources. It implies that the information is not confirmed or official. For example, if someone tells you about a new job opening at your company, you might say, 'I heard on the grapevine that there's a new job opening in our department.'

• 1. Social Gatherings

  At the party, she heard on the grapevine that her favorite band was going to have a concert in town.

• 2. Workplace

  During lunch break, he overheard on the grapevine that there might be layoffs in the company.

• 3. Community

  She always knows the latest gossip because she hears on the grapevine.

Similar phrases to “Hear on the grapevine”:

Word on the street

Rumors or information that is circulating among people

Example

The word on the street is that they're planning a surprise party for her.

Through the grapevine

Information that is passed along unofficially

Example

She found out through the grapevine that her favorite store was having a sale.

Rumor has it

There is a rumor or gossip about something

Example

Rumor has it that they're going to announce a new product next week.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Hear on the grapevine” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Hear on the grapevine" is unknown.

Is “Hear on the grapevine” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Hear on the grapevine" is a common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to talk about rumors or information they've heard from unofficial sources.

What tone does “Hear on the grapevine” have?

"Hear on the grapevine" conveys a tone of informality and casual conversation. It's often used when discussing rumors or gossip.

Can “Hear on the grapevine” be used in informal and formal settings?

While "Hear on the grapevine" is more commonly used in informal settings, it can also be used in formal situations depending on the context. However, it's important to note that using this phrase in a formal setting may not be appropriate in certain professional or academic environments.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I heard on the grapevine that they're getting married.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I heard on the grapevine!' to imply that you've heard some interesting information.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• gossip
• scuttlebutt
• rumors
• unconfirmed reports
• whispers

Antonyms

• facts
• official announcement
• confirmed information
• verified news