indirect
|in/di/rect|
🇺🇸
/ˌɪndəˈrɛkt/
🇬🇧
/ˌɪndɪˈrɛkt/
not directly
Etymology
'indirect' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'indirectus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'directus' meant 'straight.'
'indirectus' transformed into the French word 'indirect,' and eventually became the modern English word 'indirect' through Middle English.
Initially, it meant 'not straight,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'not directly caused or resulting from something.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
not directly caused by or resulting from something.
The consequences of the decision were indirect.
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Antonyms
Adjective 2
not going straight to the point; roundabout.
He gave an indirect answer to the question.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:40