Through the Grapevine: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Through the Grapevine” mean?

"Through the Grapevine" means hearing information from someone unofficially or indirectly.

What context can I use the in?

Example

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

Example

Word is spreading through the grapevine that there will be layoffs.

Example

I found out through the grapevine that they're planning a surprise party for me

Is “Through the Grapevine” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Through 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 “Through the Grapevine” effectively in context?

You can use "Through the Grapevine" when you want to convey that you heard information from someone unofficially or indirectly. It implies that the information may not be completely reliable or confirmed. For example, if a friend tells you about a job opening at their company, you might say, 'I heard through the grapevine that there's a job opportunity at your company.'

• 1. Social Gossip

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

• 2. Office Rumors

  Word is spreading through the grapevine that there will be layoffs.

• 3. Surprise Party

  I found out through the grapevine that they're planning a surprise party for me.

Similar phrases to “Through the Grapevine”:

Rumor has it

There is a rumor or gossip going around

Example

Rumor has it that they're getting a divorce.

On the down low

Secretly or discreetly

Example

They're dating, but it's on the down low.

In the loop

Being informed or included in a group or network

Example

Make sure to keep me in the loop about any updates.

From the horse's mouth

Directly from the source

Example

I heard it from the horse's mouth that they're getting a promotion.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Through the Grapevine” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Through the Grapevine" is unknown. It is believed to have originated in the United States in the mid-1800s. The phrase may have been inspired by the telegraph system, where information was transmitted through wires like grapes on a vine.

Is “Through the Grapevine” common in everyday conversation?

"Through the Grapevine" is a very common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to talk about hearing information indirectly or unofficially. It is frequently used in both informal and formal settings.

What tone does “Through the Grapevine” have?

"Through the Grapevine" conveys a tone of informality and uncertainty. It suggests that the information being shared may not be entirely accurate or reliable.

Can “Through the Grapevine” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Through the Grapevine" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that conveys the idea of hearing information indirectly. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and family, as well as in more formal situations such as business meetings or professional correspondence.

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

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I heard through the grapevine that they're getting married.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I heard it "through the grapevine"!' to imply that the information is not fully confirmed.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• get wind of
• hear it on good authority
• pick up on
• catch wind of
• learn by word of mouth

Antonyms

• officially confirmed
• verified information
• direct communication
• first-hand knowledge