What is indirectly? How to use in English

Discover the meaning of indirectly in English, its pronunciation, and how to use it correctly in real-life situations. See examples and easy memorization tips.

Definition & pronunciation of indirectly

indirectlyadverb
gián tiếp
/ˌɪndɪˈrɛktli//ˌɪndʌɪˈrɛktli/

Definition & pronunciation of <strong>indirectly</strong>

Where does the word indirectly come from?

"Indirectly" is a combination of the prefix "in-" meaning "not" or "the opposite of" and the word "directly." The word "directly" comes from the Latin word "directus," meaning "straight" or "in a straight line." Therefore, "indirectly" implies a path or connection that is not straight or direct, but rather deviating or roundabout. The first recorded use of "indirectly" was in the 14th century.

Vocabulary summary indirectly

type adverb

meaning indirect

example to refer to someone indirectly

Example of vocabulary indirectlynamespace

not as the main aim, cause or result of something, but in addition to it; not in a direct line or manner

The new law will affect us all, directly or indirectly.
We heard about the meeting indirectly.
They communicated indirectly through a mutual friend.
Jane indirectly hinted to her husband that she wanted a divorce by giving away their wedding album and removing her ring.
The CEO's body language during the meeting suggested indirectly that he was unhappy with the presented proposal.

in a way that is not clear or obvious