What does it mean to read in an undertone?

To "read in an undertone" means to read quietly, in a low voice, so that the words are only audible to the reader themselves or to those very close by. It's a softer way of reading compared to reading aloud, where the voice is projected more clearly.

Here are some ways to think about it:

* Whispering: Reading in an undertone can be close to whispering, but it's slightly louder. You can still hear the words, but you wouldn't hear them from across the room.

* Mumbling: While it's not always the case, reading in an undertone can sometimes sound like mumbling, especially if the reader isn't paying close attention to their articulation.

* Self-reflection: Reading in an undertone is often done for personal reflection, allowing the reader to fully absorb the text without external distraction.

Examples:

* A student might read a passage in an undertone to practice their pronunciation.

* Someone might read a poem in an undertone to appreciate its rhythm and rhyme scheme.

* A person might read a novel in an undertone before bed to relax and unwind.

Essentially, reading in an undertone is a way to engage with the text privately, making it a more personal and focused experience.