Is there a term to describe speech that has a hidden meaning but is not sarcastic?
I want to describe how someone is saying something but hidden behind their words they are blaming the person they are talking to. It's kind of like sarcasm but not quite as strong. With sarcasm the meaning is obvious and it's meant to hurt. With the situation I'm describing it's not really about cutting down the other person and making yourself feel smart, more like blaming them for something that went wrong and feeling sorry at the same time. The speaker isn't really trying to hit the listener with the hidden meaning, but with just a tiny bit of effort the listener can infer the extra meaning in the speaker's words.
If sarcasm doesn't describe this, then what does? What words or phrases can be used?
Solution 1:
I think "subtext" is what you're after: in this case, a subtext of blame.
Solution 2:
People often make insinuating, or suggestive remarks.
From The Free Dictionary:
in·sin·u·at·ing
Provoking gradual doubt or suspicion; suggestive: insinuating remarks.
Artfully contrived to gain favor or confidence; ingratiating.
It could be said at times, depending, that they are engaging in subterfuge.
Again, from The Free Dictionary:
sub·ter·fuge
A deceptive stratagem or device: "the paltry subterfuge of an anonymous signature" (Robert Smith Surtees).
Solution 3:
I think you might be thinking of (or trying to think of) condescension.