Definitions

indirect

[in-duh-rekt, -dahy-] / ˌɪn dəˈrɛkt, -daɪ- /

ADJECTIVE

roundabout; unintended

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous ancillary circuitous implied incidental oblique tortuous

STRONG

collateral

WEAK

circular circumlocutory complicated contingent crooked devious discursive duplicitous erratic eventual long long way home long-drawn-out long-winded meandering obscure out-of-the-way periphrastic rambling secondary serpentine sidelong sinister sinuous snaking sneaking sneaky subsidiary twisting underhand vagrant wandering winding zigzag

Antonyms

STRONGEST

direct straight straightforward

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Indirect talks between the U.S. and Iran in Oman, mediated by Omani officials, concluded with Iran open to further discussions but unwilling to end nuclear enrichment.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

Indirect ceasefire talks between the parties are set to start in Egypt on Monday.

From BBC • Oct. 4, 2025

Indirect costs cover items outside of salaries, travel, supplies and other direct expenses.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 9, 2025

Indirect talks were taking place in Qatar — which also played a role in the freeing of four hostages by Hamas last month — about a larger release of hostages.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 9, 2023

Indirect evidence shows that he was a contemporary of Aristotle, whom he attacked with great bitterness.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 9, Slice 8 "Ethiopia" to "Evangelical Association" by Various

Vocabulary lists containing indirect

Jim Burke's Academic Vocabulary List

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Geography and World Regions

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Workshop 2, Part 2

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