INDIRECT Synonyms: 43 Similar and Opposite Words

indirect

adjective

ˌin-də-ˈrekt

Definition of indirect

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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of indirect Similarly, pothos thrive in bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate a variety of conditions. — Helena Madden, Martha Stewart, 2 Nov. 2026 One was secured by liquid assets and by equity in entities that own real estate, with indirect reliance on the value of the team. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 28 Oct. 2026 My testing resulted in a similarly indirect answer when asking about the 2024 presidential election, with Google’s AI telling me to just consult the FEC for that information. — Kyle Orland, ArsTechnica, 28 Oct. 2026 Brodsky was later charged with indirect contempt of court for violating the gag order, per WGN9. — Alex Gurley, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for indirect

Recent Examples of Synonyms for indirect

Adjective

The decision to cut the running time makes roundabout sense, given that one of the few things most Western viewers know about Hindi movies is their historically enormous lengths.

— Siddhant Adlakha, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2026
In a roundabout way, this might actually help lead to more games between marquee opponents, specifically because the outcome doesn't matter.

— Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 5 Nov. 2026

Definition of roundabout

Adjective

Massage, don’t scrub Use your fingertips in small circular motions, without ever scrubbing.

— Mélanie Defouilloy, Vogue, 6 Nov. 2026
On top of his head is a small box, about one inch square in size, connected to a circular portal in his skull about the size of a nickel.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 6 Nov. 2026