B1adjectivelanguageacademic
US/ˌɪn.dəˈrekt/
UK/ˌɪn.daɪˈrekt/
not happening or done in a straight or obvious way; caused by something in a less clear way
In context
Vietnamese people often use indirect language to refuse politely.
The factory closure had an indirect effect on local restaurants.
We took an indirect flight through Singapore because it was cheaper.
Words that go with indirect
adjective + noun
- indirect effectHigher fuel prices have an indirect effect on food prices.
- indirect speechIn indirect speech, 'I am tired' becomes 'she said she was tired'.
- indirect costRent and electricity are indirect costs for the project.
- indirect routeThe bus takes an indirect route through the suburbs.
- indirect wayShe told me in an indirect way that she was unhappy.