What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
implicitly
Example
She implicitly agreed to the terms of the contract by signing it. [implicitly: adverb]
Example
The teacher implicitly criticized the student's work by suggesting ways to improve it. [implicitly: adverb]
indirectly
Example
He indirectly hinted that he was unhappy with the decision by avoiding eye contact. [indirectly: adverb]
Example
The message was conveyed indirectly through a friend. [indirectly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indirectly is more commonly used than implicitly in everyday language. Indirectly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while implicitly is less common and tends to be used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between implicitly and indirectly?
Implicitly is typically associated with a more formal or academic tone, while indirectly can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
