indirection
lowformal
Definition
Meaning
The quality of not being direct or straightforward; roundaboutness.
In computing, a technique where a reference points to another reference rather than directly to data. In rhetoric and literature, indirect expression or subtlety.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Often carries negative connotations of deceit or evasion, but can be neutral or positive in technical or artistic contexts as a form of subtlety.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Similar in both varieties, typically formal or technical.
Frequency
Equally uncommon in both British and American English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
indirection in [noun]indirection of [noun]indirection through [noun]Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “by indirection”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Indirection in negotiations can serve as a tactic to avoid direct confrontation or to gauge opponent's intentions.
Academic
In literary criticism, indirection is analyzed as a stylistic device for implying meaning without explicit statement.
Everyday
Rarely used in casual conversation; more likely encountered in formal discussions or specific fields.
Technical
In computer science, indirection involves using pointers or references to access data or code indirectly, enhancing flexibility.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Indirection means not saying things directly.
- She used indirection to avoid answering the question.
- The manager's indirection in meetings often leads to confusion.
- Advanced programming techniques rely on indirection for efficient memory management.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of 'indirection' as 'in-direct-ion' – the action or state of being indirect.
Conceptual Metaphor
INDIRECTION IS A WINDING PATH, whereas DIRECTNESS IS A STRAIGHT LINE.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation as 'индирекция', which is not standard. Use 'косвенность' for general meaning, 'уклончивость' for evasion, and 'непрямое обращение' or 'косвенная адресация' for computing contexts.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing 'indirection' (noun) with 'indirect' (adjective). Mispronouncing with stress on the first syllable instead of the third (e.g., /ˈɪndɪrekʃən/).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'indirection'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is relatively uncommon and primarily used in formal, academic, or technical contexts.
Yes, in fields like diplomacy or literature, indirection can be viewed as tact, subtlety, or artistic nuance.
They are often synonymous, but 'indirection' may imply a deliberate technique or method, while 'indirectness' is a more general quality.
Using a pointer variable to store the address of another variable, allowing indirect access to data, is a classic example of indirection.