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indirectness

[ˌɪndəˈrɛktnəs]

indirectness Definition

the quality of not saying something in a clear or direct way, often in order to avoid causing offense or to suggest something without saying it directly.

Using indirectness: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "indirectness" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Her indirectness made it difficult for me to understand what she really meant.

  • Example

    The politician's speech was full of indirectness and vague statements.

  • Example

    I appreciate your honesty and directness, please don't resort to indirectness.

indirectness Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for indirectness

Antonyms for indirectness

Phrases with indirectness

  • to avoid talking about something directly

    Example

    Stop beating around the bush and tell me what you really think.

  • to understand the hidden or implied meaning in something that is said or written

    Example

    I had to read between the lines to understand what he really meant.

  • to make something seem less unpleasant than it really is

    Example

    Don't sugarcoat the truth, I can handle it.

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Summary: indirectness in Brief

Indirectness [ˌɪndəˈrɛktnəs] refers to the quality of not saying something in a clear or direct way. It is often used to avoid causing offense or to suggest something without saying it directly. Synonyms include circumlocution, evasion, equivocation, hinting, and implied meaning. Examples of indirectness include 'Her indirectness made it difficult for me to understand what she really meant.' and 'The politician's speech was full of indirectness and vague statements.'