as in roundabout
not straightforward or direct
the cab driver took a very indirect route to the hotel a long-winded, indirect answer to a very simple question
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of indirect
The system consolidates soldier communications, networking, and control tools into a single wearable unit, allowing operators to direct unmanned aerial systems, call for indirect fire, and coordinate robotic teammates, all while maintaining mobility in complex terrain.
—
Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2025
Florida teachers are facing investigations for social media posts deemed insensitive after Charlie Kirk’s death — scrutiny that the state’s teachers union says targets even tangential or indirect comments.
—Miami Herald, 14 Oct. 2025
To the extent permitted by applicable law, all judgments or awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket damages (excluding attorneys’ fees) associated with participation in this Promotion and shall not include any indirect, punitive, incidental and/or consequential damages.
—Vogue, 13 Oct. 2025
Jefferies could incur financial losses from its indirect investments in First Brands but the investment bank has ample liquidity to absorb the impact, Handler said in a letter.
—Scott Schnipper, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for indirect
Kapil Kajal, Interesting Engineering, 14 Oct. 2025
Florida teachers are facing investigations for social media posts deemed insensitive after Charlie Kirk’s death — scrutiny that the state’s teachers union says targets even tangential or indirect comments.
—Miami Herald, 14 Oct. 2025
To the extent permitted by applicable law, all judgments or awards shall be limited to actual out-of-pocket damages (excluding attorneys’ fees) associated with participation in this Promotion and shall not include any indirect, punitive, incidental and/or consequential damages.
—Vogue, 13 Oct. 2025
Jefferies could incur financial losses from its indirect investments in First Brands but the investment bank has ample liquidity to absorb the impact, Handler said in a letter.
—Scott Schnipper, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2025
See All Example Sentences for indirect
Recent Examples of Synonyms for indirect
Adjective
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In 2020, the Supreme Court — in a roundabout way — ended the confusion by refusing to consider an appellate ruling that validated special taxes proposed by initiative and approved by simple majorities.—
Dan Walters,
Oc Register,
14 Oct. 2025
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In 2020, the Supreme Court — in a roundabout way — ended the confusion by refusing to consider an appellate ruling that validated special taxes proposed by initiative and approved by simple majorities.—
Dan Walters,
Mercury News,
11 Oct. 2025
Adjective
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The brand, which recently became first denim brand to achieve the TESTEX Circularity Label, says this circular loop process reduces CO₂ emissions by 47 percent, saves up to 90 percent water compared to industry standards and cuts waste.—
Angela Velasquez,
Sourcing Journal,
20 Oct. 2025
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According to Carscoops, early renderings reveal a low-slung front end, circular headlights, a modest front grille, and a compact cockpit, complemented by wing mirrors perched high on the A-pillars.—
Jijo Malayil,
Interesting Engineering,
20 Oct. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Indirect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/indirect. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.
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