Synonyms of indirect

indirect

adjective

ˌin-də-ˈrekt 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• roundabout
• circular
• misleading
• winding
• circuitous
• twisting
• subtle
• tortuous
• serpentine
• sinuous
• deceptive
• insidious
• rambling
• duplicitous
• crooked
• dishonest
• wandering
• verbose
• calculating
• circumlocutory
• sneaky
• cunning
• prolix
• underhanded
• deceitful
• crafty
• underhand
• curvy
• meandering
• tricky
• long-winded
• devious

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• direct
• straight
• straightforward
• open
• plain
• honest
• frank
• candid
• forthright
• undisguised
• unconcealed

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of indirect

As indirect sales grow in strategic importance and promotional budgets face tighter scrutiny, the question is how fast to build the infrastructure to measure partner incentive spend. — Jason Atkins, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026

Investigators found evidence of longstanding relationships that included political backing, direct and indirect financing, logistical support, operational coordination and institutional protection. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 16 Sep. 2026

Nevada adopted its indirect potable reuse regulations in 2016, giving the water authority the regulatory framework to pursue the project. — Piper Heath, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026

More than 60 companies have expressed interest in the special economic zone, which the partners expect to support over 20,000 direct and indirect jobs. — Manal Albarakati, semafor.com, 14 Sep. 2026