Indirection refers to the process of addressing an idea or action not in a direct manner. Instead of approaching a subject head-on or in a straightforward manner, Indirection involves a more circuitous or oblique method. This concept can manifest in various fields, including literature, communication, and computing, where it often implies a reliance on alternatives or intermediaries to convey meaning or achieve objectives.
Indirection meaning with examples
- In literature, an author may use Indirection to create suspense by revealing information gradually, rather than delivering it directly. For instance, a mystery novel may hint at the perpetrator's identity through subtle clues embedded in dialogue and descriptions, compelling readers to piece together the truth through inference rather than explicit statements.
- In everyday communication, a person might employ Indirection during a conversation to avoid offending someone. Instead of directly critiquing a friend’s behavior, they might express their feelings by discussing a similar experience of their own, hoping the friend will recognize their flaws without feeling attacked.
- In computing, Indirection can refer to the use of pointers or references in programming. Instead of accessing data directly, a program might employ Indirection to refer to values via their addresses, allowing for more flexibility and dynamic memory management while also making the code less obvious to understand at first glance.
- In diplomatic negotiations, representatives often utilize Indirection to navigate sensitive topics. By discussing related issues or using coded language, they can address contentious points without provoking immediate conflict, allowing them to gauge reactions and build consensus in a more subtle manner.