B1adjective 2K

Indirect

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌɪndəˈrekt//ˌɪndaɪˈrekt/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌɪndəˈrekt//ˌɪndaɪˈrekt/"]/

Meaning of Indirect

happening not as the main aim, cause or result of a particular action, but in addition to it

In simple words: Not straight or direct; involves more steps.

Indirect in a sentence

• the **indirect effects** of the war
• to find something out by indirect methods
• The building collapsed as an indirect result of the heavy rain.
• There would be some benefit, however indirect, to the state.
• territories under the indirect control of the British
• The comment was an indirect attack on the prime minister.
• The president made an indirect reference to the subject in his speech.
• an indirect route
• The plant prefers indirect sunlight.

How to use Indirect

Use 'indirect' when something is not straightforward. It's appropriate in both casual and formal situations, but avoid it in contexts requiring clarity, like legal or technical communications.

Grammar pattern

indirect + object

Memory hint

Think of 'in' and 'direct' as going around the corner instead of going straight.

Related words

Collocations with Indirect

• indirect communication
• indirect approach
• indirect evidence
• indirect route
• indirect effect

Synonyms for Indirect

• circuitous
• roundabout
• oblique
• devious
• insinuating

Opposites of Indirect

• direct
• straightforward

Common mistakes with Indirect

• 'Indirect' is sometimes confused with 'direct'.
• Using 'indirect' for actions instead of methods.
• Mistakenly using 'indirectly' when 'directly' is needed.

Frequently asked questions about Indirect

What does Indirect mean?

Not straight or direct; involves more steps.

What is the definition of Indirect?

happening not as the main aim, cause or result of a particular action, but in addition to it

How do you use Indirect in a sentence?

the **indirect effects** of the war

Can you give another example of Indirect?

to find something out by indirect methods

What are synonyms for Indirect?

Common alternatives include circuitous, roundabout, oblique, devious, insinuating.

What is the opposite of Indirect?

Opposite meanings include direct, straightforward.

What words go with Indirect?

It commonly pairs with indirect communication, indirect approach, indirect evidence, indirect route, indirect effect.

What are common mistakes when using Indirect?

'Indirect' is sometimes confused with 'direct'. Using 'indirect' for actions instead of methods. Mistakenly using 'indirectly' when 'directly' is needed.

How do you pronounce Indirect?

US: /["/ˌɪndəˈrekt//ˌɪndaɪˈrekt/"]/, UK: /["/ˌɪndəˈrekt//ˌɪndaɪˈrekt/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Indirect?

Use 'indirect' when something is not straightforward. It's appropriate in both casual and formal situations, but avoid it in contexts requiring clarity, like legal or technical communications.

What CEFR level is Indirect?

"Indirect" is at B1 level on the CEFR scale.