Spanish Conversation · Level 182
15 words
Spanish word
indirecto
Pronunciation
IPA/indiˈɾekto/
Meaning
- adjectiveindirect
Example
Si vas a decir algo, no seas indirecto.
If you're going to say something, don't be indirect.
More examples
Su comentario fue indirecto y nadie respondió.
His indirect comment received no reply.
Core concept
A remark that avoids stating something directly.
Common phrases
comentario indirecto
indirect comment
mensaje indirecto
indirect message
tono indirecto
indirect tone
Similar words
evasivo: Avoids giving a direct answer by dodging questions or changing the topic.
sutil: Conveys a delicate point through subtle wording and small cues.
disimulado: Keeps true feelings hidden, communicating in a way that masks the real intention.
velado: Hints or implies a meaning indirectly, leaving the message partly veiled.
Definition in Spanish
Que expresa una idea sin decirla de forma clara y directa, usando rodeos o matices para suavizar la comunicación.
Word origin
From Latin in- 'not' + directus 'straight' via Medieval Latin indirectus, Spanish indirecto describes speech that is 'not straight' and so avoids saying things directly.
Usage tips
- Often used to soften criticism or refusals, and speakers add words like quizá, tal vez, or conditional verbs such as podrías to increase the indirectness.