not directly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not directly" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to show that something is not done or happening in a direct manner. Example: I didn't tell him the truth directly, but I hinted at it. or His actions do not directly affect me, but they do have an indirect impact on my life.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Not directly.

The New York Times

Not directly; not indirectly.

The Economist

Not directly, anyhow.

The New York Times - Books

But certainly not directly.

The New York Times

Not directly," said Mr. Giakoumis.

The New York Times

It's not directly answered.

The Guardian - Books

Not directly, of course.

The New York Times - Books

Those statistics do not directly prove sexism.

The Guardian - Film

It would not directly finance European governments.

The New York Times

Ryan did not directly answer the question.

The New York Times - Sports

That decision did not directly affect BMI.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "not directly" to clarify that a relationship or effect exists but isn't immediately obvious. For example, "The policy does "not directly" impact sales, but it enhances brand reputation."

Common error

Avoid using "not directly" when there is absolutely no connection at all. The phrase implies some level of influence, even if weak. For example, don't say "The weather is "not directly" responsible for the stock market crash" unless there is a far-fetched correlation to discuss.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not directly" functions as an adverbial modifier, specifically to qualify the manner in which an action or state occurs. As Ludwig AI confirms, it indicates that something is done or happening in an indirect manner. The examples show its use in negating a direct relationship or influence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

37%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "not directly" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate an indirect relationship or influence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in written English. The analysis shows that the phrase is prevalent in "News & Media" and "Science", suggesting its applicability across various formal and informal contexts. When using "not directly", ensure a clear understanding of the causal chain to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

indirectly

This single word highlights the absence of a direct connection or influence.

not in a direct manner

This alternative emphasizes the way something is done, lacking directness.

by way of an intermediary

This specifies the presence of a mediating factor or agent.

through a third party

This suggests involvement of an external entity rather than a direct link.

not immediately

This emphasizes the delay or lack of instant connection.

in an oblique fashion

This suggests a roundabout or evasive approach.

not in a straightforward way

This highlights the complexity or convoluted nature of the connection.

vicariously

This implies experiencing something through another person or source.

tangentially

This indicates a slight or insignificant connection.

by implication

This suggests that the link is not explicit but inferred.

FAQs

What does "not directly" mean?

The phrase "not directly" means that something is not the primary or immediate cause or agent of an effect or situation. It suggests an indirect or less obvious connection.

How can I use "not directly" in a sentence?

You can use "not directly" to indicate that something has an influence, but it's /s/not+the+main+reason. For instance, "The new law does "not directly" affect consumers, but it does impact businesses that serve them."

What are some alternatives to "not directly"?

Alternatives to "not directly" include "indirectly", "not in a direct manner", or "through a third party".

When is it appropriate to use "not directly" instead of "directly"?

Use "not directly" when there is a connection or influence, but it is not the main or most obvious one. "Directly" should be used when the effect is immediate and clear.