Indirect meaning

What does “indirect” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“indirect” is an adjective with 5 meanings. Its most common meaning is: having intervening factors or persons or influences.

indirect

having intervening factors or persons or influences
“reflection from the ceiling provided a soft indirect light”
“indirect evidence”
not direct in spatial dimension; not leading by a straight line or course to a destination
“sometimes taking an indirect path saves time”
“you must take an indirect course in sailing”
Oppositesdirect
descended from a common ancestor but through different lines
“cousins are collateral relatives”
“an indirect descendant of the Stuarts”
Synonymscollateral
extended senses; not direct in manner or language or behavior or action
“making indirect but legitimate inquiries”
“an indirect insult”
Oppositesdirect
not as a direct effect or consequence
“indirect benefits”
“an indirect advantage”

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University