oblique

Compared meaning: not stated or done in a direct way (adjective).

比较义项：间接的（形容词）。

• indirect

  Neutral term for something not stated or caused straightforwardly; used broadly for answers, causes, routes, or methods without implying evasiveness.

  中性词，指没有直截了当地说出或造成的事情；广泛用于回答、原因、路线或方法，不一定暗示回避。

  The report gave only an indirect explanation for the delay, without naming a cause.

  这份报告只对延误给出了间接的解释，没有指出具体原因。

• oblique 本词

  More formal and pointed; implies deliberate evasion or reluctance to be straightforward, often carrying a mildly critical tone.

  更正式且更具针对性，暗示故意回避或不愿直说，往往带有轻微的批评意味。

  Her oblique reply made it clear she didn't want to discuss the topic at all.

  她那间接、拐弯抹角的回答表明她根本不想谈这个话题。

Indirect and oblique both describe something not stated in a direct way. Indirect is neutral, simply meaning not straightforward, used broadly for answers, causes, or routes. Oblique is more formal, implying deliberate evasion or reluctance to be straightforward, with a mildly critical tone.

两词都表示话语或态度不直截了当，但 oblique 更强调刻意回避、拐弯抹角以致让人捉摸不透，语气略带批评；indirect 只是中性地描述“不是直接说的”，不一定带有回避的意味。