Describing a method, route, or action that doesn't take the most direct or straightforward path to a result. It often involves a secondary or intervening agency or means to achieve the intended outcome. An indirect approach might involve implication, suggestion, or influence rather than explicit statements or direct action. It implies a less obvious, more circuitous route to the point.
Indirect meaning with examples
- The detective used indirect questioning, subtly probing the suspect's alibi through seemingly unrelated inquiries, hoping to uncover inconsistencies that would reveal the truth about the crime.
- The charity launched an indirect aid program, channeling donations through local organizations already established in the disaster-stricken area, optimizing the reach of the help.
- Her essay employed an indirect style, using allegories and metaphors rather than directly stating her views on political matters, and invited readers to form their own opinion.
- The company employed an indirect marketing strategy, partnering with social media influencers to promote their products in subtle ways, garnering attention with no hard selling.
- Rather than confront his coworker directly, he chose an indirect approach and voiced his concerns to their mutual manager, hoping to improve his working conditions.
Indirect Synonyms
allusive circuitous circumstantial consequential implied mediated oblique roundabout secondary suggestiveIndirect Antonyms
direct explicit frank immediate straightforward unambiguous unmediatedIndirect Crossword Answers
5 Letters
VAGUE
7 Letters
OBLIQUE DEVIOUS
8 Letters
IMPLICIT SIDELONG
9 Letters
DIVERGENT
10 Letters
ROUNDABOUT CIRCUITOUS COLLATERAL