American English
/ˌɪn.dəˈɹɛkt̚/
3 syllables · Stress the third syllable.
Not following the shortest or most direct route; using another route or method.
Practice out loudNot following the shortest or most direct route; using another route or method.
The indirect route took an extra hour.
We used an indirect method to find the answer.
indirect route · indirect flight · indirect method · indirect approach
take an indirect route to + place
use an indirect method to + verb
Not expressed clearly or openly; suggested rather than stated.
She was indirect about her reason for leaving.
His indirect answer made me unsure.
Use indirect for a message that is suggested instead of said clearly.
indirect answer · indirect question · indirect criticism · indirect reference
be indirect about + noun
give an indirect answer
Connected to something or causing something through another person, thing, or step, rather than directly.
The new rule had an indirect effect on prices.
The report gave only indirect evidence.
indirect effect · indirect evidence · indirect costs · indirect tax
have an indirect effect on + noun
be an indirect cause of + noun
A question asked in a less direct or more polite form, or included inside a longer sentence.
Could you tell me where the station is?
A way of reporting someone's words without repeating the exact words.
She said that she was tired.