Hear it on the Grapevine Meaning, Definition, Example, Synonym 

The meaning of the idiom ‘Hear it on the grapevine, or  Hear something through the grapevine’ hints that the concerned person’s source of information is suspicious and is based on rumour or gossip. Therefore, his source of information cannot be trustworthy or credible. 

This idea came into existence during the 1900S through the invention of ‘Grapevine telegraphy’. As the source of information for Grapevine telegraphy was eavesdropping rather than actual fieldwork. 

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Usage with Examples

The usage of Hear it on the grapevine is suitable to imply a state of interrogation and suspicion. This can either be good or bad, given the outcome of that suspicion. 

Let’s take a closer look at these examples to master the usage of the idiom:

• I heard on the grapevine that Sarah is getting promoted.
• Have you heard on the grapevine that John is getting married?
• I heard on the grapevine that there will be layoffs in the company.

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Hear it on the Grapevine Synonyms

You can also use these synonymous phrases instead of using the idiom having similar meanings:

• Word on the street
• Rumour has it
• Gossip mill
• Scuttlebutt
• Whispers in the wind 

Hear it on the Grapevine Meaning Quiz

Choose the correct option to complete the sentence: “ She heard it on the grapevine that…”

• She is going to die on her next birthday. 
• Her ex-boyfriend is dating someone new.
• Tomorrow would be pleasant weather. 

Answer: Her ex-boyfriend is dating someone new.

Also Read: Idioms for IELTS

This was all about the idiom Hear it on the grapevine meaning and definition with examples. Hopefully, you understood the concept where it’s used. For more such blogs, follow Leverage Edu.