message

get the message (informal)

to understand what someone is trying to tell you even if they are not expressing themselves directly. Next time he calls, tell him you're busy for the next three months - he'll soon get the message. Okay, I get the message - you want to be alone.

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get the message

to understand what someone is trying to tell you, although they do not say it directly. Next time he calls, tell him you're busy for the next three months — he'll get the message.

send a message

to do something that is likely to influence someone's attitudes or behavior. The arrests of several well-known people in the area sends a message that no one is immune from the law, not even the famous. The fact that nothing is done to help the homeless sends a message that we don't care.

Usage notes: said about actions whether they are intentional or not

See also: send