though not directly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "though not directly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is related or connected in an indirect way, rather than being straightforward or explicit. Example: "The results of the study support the hypothesis, though not directly, as there are several variables at play."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Others, though not directly affected, came to show their empathy with those who were.

The Guardian

That figure is akin to OECD aid data for other countries though not directly comparable.

The Guardian

Though not directly hit, her building sustained water damage and the elevators haven't worked since, she said.

The New York Times

Dr. Brawley was at the cancer institute then, though not directly involved with its prostate cancer screening study.

The New York Times

We can detect, though not directly see, the spin of a black hole and the relativistic effects that warp space-time near its event horizon.

The Guardian - Books

The German chancellor and her culture minister, Monika Grütters, though not directly in charge of appointing the director of the forum, are fans of MacGregor.

The Guardian - Opinion

The point that Darwin wishes to make through the agency of his setters and birds, though not directly demonstrative of his thesis, is brilliantly illustrative of it.

The New Yorker

The annual contribution of pollinators to essential ecosystem functions like water and habitat health, though not directly valued by markets, likely exceeds $200 billion.

The New York Times

He tested positive six weeks after the first patient left the hospital and died soon after, though not directly because of the infection.

The New York Times - Health

The Capital Market Authority's announcement in January of rules to allow foreign companies to cross-list, though not directly related, is an indication that regulators are contemplating change.

The New York Times

But a Federal Bureau of Investigation official, without giving details, said F.B.I. agents in Yemen do get access to interviews and have a chance to ask follow-up questions, though not directly.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "though not directly", ensure that the context makes it clear what the indirect connection is. Providing additional details or examples can help your audience understand the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "though not directly" when there is no actual relationship, even if indirect. Ensure a tangible, logical connection exists; otherwise, the phrase becomes misleading and weakens your argument.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "though not directly" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically used to qualify or limit the scope of a statement by indicating that something is connected or related in an indirect manner. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a standard expression to express that something is related or connected in an indirect way, rather than being straightforward or explicit.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

38%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "though not directly" functions as an adverbial modifier used to indicate an indirect relationship or connection. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, including News & Media, Science, Encyclopedias and Wiki. It serves to acknowledge a connection that exists but is not immediately obvious, adding nuance to statements. When using this phrase, ensure that the indirect connection is clear from the context to avoid misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

albeit indirectly

Emphasizes the indirect nature of the connection or influence, presenting it as a concession.

even if not explicitly

Focuses on the lack of explicit mention or statement, suggesting an implied connection.

in an oblique way

Highlights the indirect and roundabout manner in which something is done or related.

not in a straightforward manner

Emphasizes the absence of a direct or simple approach.

by implication

Suggests that something is understood or meant without being openly expressed.

not by design

Indicates that something happened unintentionally or without a specific plan.

in a roundabout way

Focuses on the circuitous route or method used to achieve something.

through an intermediary

Highlights the use of a mediator or go-between in the process.

not head-on

Implies an avoidance of direct confrontation or approach.

by secondary means

Suggests that the primary method was not used, but rather an alternative approach.

FAQs

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

The phrase "though not directly" is used to indicate an indirect relationship or connection. For example: "The policy change affected small businesses, "though not directly", through its impact on supply chains."

What are some alternatives to "though not directly"?

Alternatives to "though not directly" include "albeit indirectly", "even if not explicitly", or "in an oblique way". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to include "though not directly" when describing an indirect impact?

No, it is not always necessary. Whether to include "though not directly" depends on the context and the need to emphasize the indirectness. If the connection is already clear, it might be redundant.

What's the difference between "though not directly" and "though not immediately"?

"Though not directly" emphasizes an indirect relationship, while "though not immediately" emphasizes a time delay. For example, "The benefits were felt, though not immediately" indicates the benefits took time to materialize, whereas "The benefits were felt, "though not directly"" indicates an indirect link.