Word: Indirect

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈdərɛkt/

Definitions

• Adjective: Not going straight to the point; not direct in action, motion, or communication. For example: “The indirect light from the lamp created a soft glow.”

• Adverb: In a way that does not proceed straightforwardly or directly. For example: “He indirectly suggested that we leave early.”

  Definitions in Depth:

  • As an Adjective:
    • Relating to something that is not expressed or achieved without going through a secondary process or person. E.g., “Indirect taxes are those collected by an intermediary (like a retailer) who then passes them on to the government.”
    • Characterizing information or a message conveyed in a subtle or implicit manner. E.g., “Her comments were indirect hints about her true feelings.”
  • As an Adverb:
    • Describing an action or effect that happens through or because of something else rather than directly. E.g., “The injury indirectly led to his retirement from sports.”

Phrases

• “Indirect costs”: Expenses that are not directly related to producing goods or services but are still necessary for running a business.
• “Indirect lighting”: Light that is not cast directly from its source onto the object being illuminated, often creating softer shadows and ambiance.
• “Indirect speech”: A way of reporting someone’s words without quoting them verbatim, using phrases like ‘he said that’ instead of ‘he said’.

Example Sentences

• Adjective: “His indirect approach to problem-solving sometimes confuses the team.”
• Adverb: “The new policy will indirectly affect many small businesses.”

Synonyms

• Roundabout
• Oblique
• Circuitous
• Indirectly (as an adverb): By way of, via, through intermediaries, not directly
• Clandestine (in certain contexts)
• Tacit (when referring to communication or implication)