indirect digs

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indirect digs" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe subtle or implied insults or criticisms that are not overtly stated. Example: "During the meeting, she made several indirect digs at his management style, leaving everyone uncomfortable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Even as the Democrats promote the county's improved finances, they can't help taking a few indirect digs at Mr. Gulotta and the other Republicans who controlled the county before them.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

His prepared testimony also made an indirect dig at some members of Congress.

The New York Times

Oscar watchers are aflutter over an e-mail message from a producer of "The Hurt Locker" asking friends and colleagues to vote for his independent movie over bigger-budget competitors, an indirect dig at "Avatar".

The New York Times

It's an indirect shot.

Huffington Post

The president did make an indirect — albeit transparent — dig at the Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney, whose recent efforts to explain his 2008 "Let Detroit Go Bankrupt" column, in light of the Michigan primary on Feb. 28, have been delighting Obama supporters.

The New York Times

The indirect costs of trench digging include "reduction in road pavement life, increased street maintenance and damage to local property," said Ilan Juran, a professor at the Urban Utility Center at Polytechnic University.

The New York Times

So far, most of the search has been indirect: deploying rovers whose job is to locate the best places to dig into the red planet and possibly uncover either fossilized or extant microbes beneath the sterile surface.

The Washington Post

By digging deep and mapping out the entire business ecosystem — including direct and indirect competitors, clients and clients' customers — senior management can gain the extended lens needed to help prepare leaders to successfully navigate future disruptions.

Forbes

Alan, the great piano tuner, in his infinite but indirect wisdom, kept money market rates so low that the banks could arbitrage money and dig themselves out of their management-made mud slides.

Forbes

How indirect!

The New York Times - Tech

Indirect lighting.

The New York Times - Style

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "indirect digs", ensure the context makes the subtle criticism clear to your audience. The effectiveness of the phrase relies on the recipient recognizing the implied insult.

Common error

Avoid using "indirect digs" when a direct criticism is more appropriate. Overuse of subtlety can weaken your message and confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indirect digs" functions as a noun phrase, typically used to describe a type of subtle criticism or insult. As noted by Ludwig AI, it suggests a non-direct or veiled form of attack. Examples show its use in describing political commentary and movie reviews.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "indirect digs" refers to subtle, implied insults or criticisms, often used to describe veiled forms of attack. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. Its use is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news and media contexts. Alternatives such as "subtle jabs" or "veiled insults" can be used depending on the specific nuance. When employing "indirect digs", ensure the implied criticism is clear to your audience, as its effectiveness relies on the recipient's recognition of the subtlety. Avoid using it when direct criticism is more appropriate to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

veiled insults

Focuses on the insulting nature, highlighting that the insults are hidden or disguised.

subtle jabs

Emphasizes the subtlety and quick, poking nature of the criticisms.

understated criticism

Highlights that the criticism is presented in a restrained or subtle manner.

implied insults

Focuses on the fact that the insults are not directly stated but are suggested or hinted at.

oblique remarks

Stresses the indirectness and circuitous nature of the comments.

coded criticisms

Suggests the criticisms are expressed in a way that only some people understand.

roundabout insults

Emphasizes the circuitous and indirect way the insults are delivered.

backhanded compliments

Highlights that the statement appears to be a compliment but subtly contains an insult.

insinuated remarks

Focuses on the fact that the remarks are hinted at or suggested without being explicitly stated.

sugarcoated barbs

Suggests the criticisms are presented in a seemingly pleasant or harmless way, but are still cutting.

FAQs

What does "indirect digs" mean?

The phrase "indirect digs" refers to subtle or implied insults or criticisms that are not explicitly stated. They are often delivered in a veiled or understated manner.

How can I use "indirect digs" in a sentence?

You might say, "During the debate, she made several "indirect digs" at her opponent's policies, which were not well-received."

What are some alternatives to "indirect digs"?

Alternatives include "subtle jabs", "veiled insults", or "understated criticism", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "indirect digs" and direct insults?

"Indirect digs" are subtle and implied, while direct insults are explicit and openly stated. The former relies on implication, whereas the latter is straightforward.