Indirectness

/ˌɪndəˈrektnəs/
noun

The quality of not being direct or straightforward.

His indirectness often confuses people because he doesn't clearly say what he means.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The quality of not being direct or straightforward

Often appears as...

  • habitual indirectness
  • usual indirectness
noun

The state of being not straight or direct in thought or language.

Her indirectness in answering the question made us suspicious.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The state of being not straight or direct in thought or language

Often appears as...

  • deliberate indirectness
  • excessive indirectness
noun

The quality of not addressing something directly.

The indirectness of his statements left room for interpretation.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The quality of not addressing something directly

Often appears as...

  • masterful indirectness
  • hidden indirectness
noun

The quality of not being direct or straightforward.

His indirectness often confuses people because he doesn't clearly say what he means.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The quality of not being direct or straightforward

Often appears as...

  • habitual indirectness
  • usual indirectness
noun

The state of being not straight or direct in thought or language.

Her indirectness in answering the question made us suspicious.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The state of being not straight or direct in thought or language

Often appears as...

  • deliberate indirectness
  • excessive indirectness
noun

The quality of not addressing something directly.

The indirectness of his statements left room for interpretation.
Visual representation of "indirectness" - The quality of not addressing something directly

Often appears as...

  • masterful indirectness
  • hidden indirectness
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "indirectness"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Social Caution

People might use indirectness to avoid being too blunt, which can seem polite in some cultures.

Illustration for Social Caution
Jane showed indirectness by saying, 'That’s an interesting idea,' instead of directly rejecting the proposal.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Cultural Variations

Some cultures rely on indirectness more than others to convey messages. Be aware of these differences.

Illustration for Cultural Variations
In many Eastern cultures, indirectness is common to show respect.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Non-Verbal Clues

Body language and tone of voice can provide clues to understand someone's indirectness.

Illustration for Non-Verbal Clues
His smile and indirectness suggested he was joking, 'Maybe I'll run for president someday.'
Word comparison image

Compare with

ambiguitycircumlocutionevasionimplicationinferenceinsinuatesubtletyvague
Look up Compare with
Visual representation of the word "Indirectness"

Never forget "Indirectness"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top