indirect approach

USAGE SUMMARY

'indirect approach' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a strategy or method of obtaining something, typically used when a more direct approach may be met with resistance. For example, "The tax increase was difficult to pass through Congress, so the government had to take an indirect approach to get it done."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Theroux takes an indirect approach.

The Guardian - Film

"We tend to take an indirect approach.

The Guardian

Initially, they took an indirect approach.

The New York Times - Health

In the indirect approach, the relaxing system is continuously disturbed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hence, he said, his deciding to turn down an indirect approach by Forest last summer.

The Guardian - Sport

If you want to "do" him, an indirect approach is probably best.

The New York Times

So patients can try the indirect approach and have their families ask.

The New York Times - Health

His indirect approach was also consistent with his talent for subtext.

The Guardian

State legislators, mimicking scattered efforts elsewhere, responded with a cagier, indirect approach.

The New York Times

"So how are you?" I said, guessing that an indirect approach was best.

The Guardian - Books

The problem is that this indirect approach to implementing paid leave policies is proving both slow and incomplete.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When dealing with sensitive topics or resistant audiences, use an "indirect approach" to introduce ideas gradually and build trust before presenting direct arguments.

Common error

Avoid equating an "indirect approach" with passivity. It requires careful planning and execution, not simply avoiding action altogether. It's about choosing the right moment and angle, rather than being inactive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indirect approach" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correctly used in various contexts to describe a roundabout or non-confrontational method of achieving a goal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

34%

News & Media

32%

Formal & Business

14%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "indirect approach" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe a method that avoids direct confrontation or explicit action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it appears frequently in various contexts, including science, news, and formal business settings. This approach is often chosen when direct methods might be ineffective or cause unintended consequences. Alternatives such as "roundabout method" or "tactful strategy" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember, an "indirect approach" requires careful planning and is not synonymous with passivity. Using it effectively involves choosing the right moment and angle to achieve the desired outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roundabout method

Emphasizes the circuitous nature of the approach.

circuitous route

Highlights the winding path taken to achieve a goal.

tactful strategy

Focuses on the diplomacy and sensitivity involved.

subtle maneuver

Stresses the delicate and understated nature of the action.

diplomatic solution

Highlights the emphasis on negotiation and compromise.

alternative tactic

Highlights using a different method to address an issue.

backdoor strategy

Suggests a less obvious or conventional approach.

gentle persuasion

Emphasizes the use of subtle influence rather than force.

oblique method

Stresses the angle or indirectness of the tactic.

strategic avoidance

Focuses on avoiding direct confrontation as a deliberate tactic.

FAQs

How to use "indirect approach" in a sentence?

You can use "indirect approach" to describe a method that avoids being direct or confrontational. For example, "The negotiator used an "indirect approach" to reach a compromise".

What's the difference between "indirect approach" and "direct approach"?

An "indirect approach" tackles a problem circuitously, while a "direct approach" confronts it head-on. The choice depends on the context and desired outcome.

When is it better to use an "indirect approach"?

An "indirect approach" is preferable when a direct method might be met with resistance, cause offense, or be ineffective due to political or social constraints.

What are some synonyms for "indirect approach"?

Synonyms include "roundabout method", "circuitous route", or "tactful strategy", each emphasizing different aspects of indirectness.