Nonstraightforwardness

Nonstraightforwardness refers to the quality or state of being indirect, complex, or evasive in manner or presentation. It implies a lack of transparency and candor, often involving ambiguity, subtle manipulation, or an intention to obscure the truth or intent. This characteristic can manifest in communication, actions, or situations, making them difficult to understand, navigate, or predict. It suggests that a direct, clear, and honest approach is not being employed, and the underlying motivations or meanings may be concealed or carefully constructed to mislead or confuse. This lack of clarity can stem from various factors, including a desire to protect oneself, to deceive, or to present information in a strategically advantageous way.

Nonstraightforwardness meaning with examples

• The politician's answers were characterized by nonstraightforwardness; he repeatedly dodged direct questions, offering vague responses instead. His evasion made it difficult for the public to discern his true position on the matter. This style of communication fostered distrust among the electorate. Critics argued he was deliberately obfuscating the truth to avoid accountability and protect his political career.
• The complex plot of the novel was filled with nonstraightforwardness, with multiple unreliable narrators and misleading clues. Readers had to carefully piece together the information, questioning the motives of each character and considering the possibility of deception. The intricate web of intrigue created a suspenseful atmosphere.
• The company's financial reports showed signs of nonstraightforwardness, with inconsistent accounting practices and ambiguous language. Analysts expressed concern that the deliberate vagueness aimed to mask underlying financial problems. The lack of transparency eroded investor confidence and led to investigations.
• Her negotiation style was defined by nonstraightforwardness; she employed subtle tactics and veiled threats to gain an advantage. She used half-truths to create confusion and make the situation seem more favorable to her. This approach, while often effective, also made it difficult for others to fully trust her.
• The detective noticed the nonstraightforwardness in the witness's testimony. The witness's statements were filled with hesitations and contradictions, and his body language was not aligned with his words. It was clear that something was being concealed, thus prompting him to delve deeper into the case.