Direct

/daɪˈɹɛkt/ · adjective

Meaning

Proceeding without deviation or interruption..

Definitions by Sense

1. Proceeding without deviation or interruption.
2. Straight; not crooked, oblique, or circuitous; leading by the short or shortest way to a point or end.
3. Straightforward; sincere.
4. Immediate; express; plain; unambiguous.
5. In the line of descent; not collateral.
6. (astronomy) In the direction of the general planetary motion, or from west to east; in the order of the signs; not retrograde; said of the motion of a celestial body.
7. (political science) Pertaining to, or effected immediately by, action of the people through their votes instead of through one or more representatives or delegates.
8. (aviation, travel) Having a single flight number.

Example Sentences

the most direct route between two buildings

Be even and direct with me.

He nowhere, that I know, says it in direct words.

Nor did the government scruple a direct and avowed interference with elections.

a descendant in the direct line

direct nomination; direct legislation

The walls, which are fixed direct into the ground without a plinth, are made of wattle and plastered with a thin lair of mud or cowdung.

Presumably Mary is to carry messages that she, Anne, is too delicate to convey direct.

Synonyms for direct

Antonyms for direct

Related Words

Word Forms

• more direct
• most direct
• directs
• directing
• directed

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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