Hear something through the grapevine
/hɪə ˈsʌmθɪŋ θruː ðə ˈɡreɪpvaɪn/informalUK · US
What does “Hear something through the grapevine” mean?
Hear something through the grapevine means to learn news through informal conversations rather than from an official or direct source.
News heard through the grapevine comes from other people, rather than an official announcement. You might hear about a friend's wedding through a mutual acquaintance.
The news isn't necessarily false, but you may not have checked it. “On the grapevine” is another familiar form, especially in British English.
When do people say it?
Use it when explaining that news reached you indirectly, especially through mutual friends or colleagues.
“I heard through the grapevine that the office might be moving.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
A spreading grapevine is an image of news passing from person to person. The expression's exact beginnings are uncertain.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Hear something through the grapevine” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Spill the beans, To give away a secret.
- Read between the lines, Find hidden meaning in what is said
Last updated 2026-09-16