more directly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase “more directly” is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a more straightforward approach to accomplishing a task. For example, “I need to find a more direct route to solving this problem.”.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Djibouti is more directly en route.

The Economist

Jack Straw announced his candidature more directly.

The Guardian - Opinion

Can't we do more, and more directly?

The New Yorker

Other insights relate more directly to life.

The New York Times - Arts

Corruption contributes to mortality more directly.

The Economist

Put more directly: I had bone cancer.

The New York Times

Or, more directly - Watch out!

The Guardian - Music

More directly political, not less.

The New York Times

Others are more directly related.

The New Yorker

Ric Burns described the circumstances more directly.

The New Yorker

Most effective is to pay more directly.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ "more directly" to contrast indirect methods with more efficient, targeted approaches.

Common error

Avoid using "more directly" when the relationship isn't truly more direct; ensure the connection is clear and not just a matter of perception. Ensure you aren't just stating something is more direct when the distinction lacks evidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "more directly" functions as an adverbial modifier, indicating the manner in which an action is performed or a relationship is established. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct and usable phrase that serves to intensify the directness of an action.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Unknown/unmatched sources

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, “more directly” is a versatile adverbial phrase used to emphasize a straightforward approach or connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news, science, and encyclopedia articles. When writing, using “more directly” can help clarify cause-and-effect relationships and contrast indirect methods, ensuring clarity and impact. While the phrase is generally neutral in tone, remember that a direct approach isn't always the best choice depending on the audience and situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more immediately

This implies a connection with less delay or mediation.

more straightforwardly

This suggests a clearer and less complicated manner.

more plainly

This indicates a clearer, simpler way of expressing something.

more expressly

This implies something is stated explicitly and without ambiguity.

more pointedly

This suggests a more forceful or direct way of making a point.

more explicitly

This refers to a more detailed and clear expression.

in a more direct manner

This is a more formal way of saying the same thing, emphasizing the approach.

more closely

Suggests a tighter or more intimate relationship or connection.

more intimately

Highlights a closer, often personal, connection.

more nearly

Implies something is closer to being direct, but not fully so.

FAQs

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

Use "more directly" to indicate a more straightforward or immediate connection or action, as opposed to something indirect. For example, "The new policy addresses the issue "more directly" than the previous one".

What's the difference between "more directly" and "more immediately"?

"More directly" implies a clearer, less mediated relationship, while "more immediately" suggests something happens with less delay. They both relate to ways an action or effect can occur but focus on different aspects: clarity versus timing.

What are some alternatives to using "more directly"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "more straightforwardly", "more plainly", or "more explicitly" to convey a similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

Is it always better to communicate "more directly"?

Not always. While direct communication can be efficient and clear, sometimes a more nuanced or indirect approach is necessary to avoid being perceived as rude or insensitive. The best approach depends on the situation and your audience.