indirectly

/ˌɪndəˈrɛktli/
adverb
  1. In a way that is not straight or direct; through someone or something else.
    • She heard the news indirectly through a friend.
    • The new policy will indirectly affect small businesses.
    • He apologized indirectly by sending a gift instead of speaking to her.
  2. In a way that is not obvious or straightforward; by hinting rather than stating directly.
    • The article indirectly criticized the government's decision.
    • His comment indirectly revealed his true feelings.
    • She indirectly asked for help by mentioning how busy she was.
Antonyms