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Indirectness: meaning, definitions and examples

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indirectness

 

[ ɪnˈdɪrɛktnəs ]

Noun
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.

Etymology

The term 'indirectness' is derived from the combination of 'indirect', which comes from the Latin 'indirectus' meaning 'not going straight towards', and the suffix '-ness', which denotes a state or quality. The concept of indirectness has been present in linguistic studies since at least the 19th century, often explored in the context of politeness theory in communication. The use of indirectness as a communication style has cultural implications, with some societies valuing explicitness and directness, while others may see indirectness as a form of respect or subtlety. As global interactions increased, understanding indirectness became essential for effective cross-cultural communication.

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.