express directly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "express directly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to convey something in a straightforward and unambiguous manner. Example: "In order to avoid misunderstandings, please express directly what you need from me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

In the tragedies, they argue, myth becomes an instrument for voicing thoughts and feelings it would have been too dangerous for Seneca to express directly.

The New Yorker

But she shares the archetypal Albee mother's urge to control, not to mention many of the nasty prejudices that most of this playwright's matrons are too polite to express directly.

The New York Times

Ms. Jeffs, directing her first feature film after many years of making commercials, uses the physical world -- small, homely objects like lemons or ice cubes, as well as the brooding seaside landscape -- to suggest the emotions her characters cannot express directly.

The New York Times

Also, recognizing that people with dementia live in a world suffused with emotion can help caregivers understand the importance of identifying feelings that may underlie a patient's behavior and respond to those, meeting needs that someone is no longer able to express directly.

The New York Times

The aesthetic losses cannot express directly in monetary value.

Environmental Systems Research

Circle, square, and rectangle objects are mainly used to express directly the value of the variable in the target program.

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Interestingly, some of the combinations consistently supported maximum expression levels higher than those reached by GFP expressed directly from the well-characterized PAOX1 under maximal induction (Supplementary Fig. 5).

Nature

You can see how silly a subject can get if it can't be expressed directly.

The New Yorker

They hark back to more ecstatic times when passion was expressed directly.

The New York Times - Arts

Now, for the most part, they focus on a positive message, expressed directly and without ambiguity.

The New Yorker

Both of these proteins expressed directly from the genomic RNA are required for efficient replication.

Encyclopedia of Virology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for transparency, use "express directly" to ensure your message is easily understood without misinterpretation.

Common error

While "express directly" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "say it straight" or "be upfront" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "express directly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action (expressing) is performed. It specifies that the expression is done in a straightforward, unambiguous way. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

41%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "express directly" is a grammatically sound and relatively common adverbial phrase used to emphasize clarity and honesty in communication. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. Its usage is observed across various domains, most notably in News & Media and Scientific contexts, making it suitable for formal and neutral registers. For situations where directness is key, "express directly" is a reliable choice; however, in informal settings, consider alternatives such as "say it straight" or "be upfront" to maintain a more relaxed tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

convey directly

Similar to "express directly" but emphasizes the act of transferring information.

state explicitly

Emphasizes clarity and leaving no room for interpretation.

communicate plainly

Focuses on simplicity and ease of understanding in communication.

make it plain

Similar to "communicate plainly", focusing on making something easily understood.

articulate clearly

Highlights the skill of expressing oneself in a lucid and coherent manner.

express unequivocally

Highlights the lack of ambiguity or doubt in the expression.

say it straight

Emphasizes honesty and directness in communication, without hesitation or embellishment.

voice openly

Implies sharing thoughts or feelings without reservation or concealment.

put it bluntly

Suggests a straightforward, possibly harsh, way of speaking.

spell it out

Implies explaining something in very simple terms, often due to the listener's lack of understanding.

FAQs

What does "express directly" mean?

The phrase "express directly" means to communicate something in a clear, straightforward, and unambiguous manner, leaving no room for misinterpretation. It emphasizes honesty and transparency in conveying a message.

How can I use "express directly" in a sentence?

You can use "express directly" to indicate that someone is communicating their thoughts or feelings openly and without hesitation. For example, "In order to resolve the conflict, both parties need to "communicate openly" and "state explicitly" their concerns."

What are some alternatives to "express directly"?

Alternatives to "express directly" include phrases like "state explicitly", "communicate plainly", "articulate clearly", or "convey directly", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "express directly" or "express indirectly"?

Whether to "express directly" or "express indirectly" depends on the situation. "Express directly" is best when clarity and honesty are paramount. However, in delicate situations, expressing something indirectly might be more appropriate to avoid causing offense or discomfort.