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Indirectness: meaning, definitions and examples

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indirectness

 

[ɪnˈdɪrɛktnəs ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

communication style

Indirectness refers to a manner of communication where the speaker does not express their thoughts or feelings in a straightforward way. This can often lead to ambiguity or misunderstanding, as the true meaning may be obscured by subtle hints or implications. In various cultures, indirectness can be valued as a form of politeness or tact.

Synonyms

ambiguity, circumlocution, implicitness, obliqueness.

Examples of usage

  • Her indirectness made it hard to understand her true feelings.
  • He preferred indirectness in his communications to avoid confrontation.
  • In some cultures, indirectness is a sign of respect.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'indirectus', meaning 'not direct'.
  • It has been a part of the English language since the late 14th century.
  • The prefix 'in-' often means 'not', so it suggests a lack of directness.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, indirectness is a polite way of communicating to avoid hurting someone's feelings.
  • Conversely, in Western cultures, direct communication is often valued for its clarity and efficiency.
  • Certain languages, like Japanese, use indirectness as a strategy to maintain harmony and respect in conversation.

Psychology

  • Indirect communication can reflect traits like empathy, as a person may want to protect others' feelings.
  • Research shows that people may perceive indirectness as more thoughtful or polite, but it can also lead to misunderstandings.
  • The preference for direct or indirect communication can vary widely depending on individual personality types.

Literature

  • Many authors use indirectness in their writing to create tension or ambiguity, allowing readers to infer meaning.
  • The use of metaphor and symbolism in poetry often embodies indirectness, enriching the layers of meaning.
  • Classic works, such as Shakespeare's plays, frequently employ indirectness to convey themes and emotions subtly.

Communication Styles

  • Indirectness can be used as a strategy in negotiation, allowing one party to gauge reactions before making a clear statement.
  • Some people might find indirectness frustrating if they prefer straightforward responses or clear expectations.
  • In digital communication, like texting or emails, indirectness can emerge through emojis or vague statements, adding ambiguity.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,689, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.