indirectionsemantics
nounUK /ˌɪndəˈrɛkʃən sɪˈmæntɪks/
US /ˌɪndəˈrɛkʃən sɪˈmæntɪks/
A way of meaning something without saying it straight.
Her indirectionsemantics made it clear she was unhappy without ever saying so.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The study of how hidden or implied meanings are carried in language.
The linguist's paper on indirectionsemantics examined how speakers avoid direct refusals.
3. A style of communication that relies on hints rather than plain statements.
His indirectionsemantics kept the meeting polite but vague.
4. The implied message that listeners infer beyond the literal words.
The indirectionsemantics of the note suggested a warning rather than a greeting.