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    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'indirectly' with 间接 (jiànjiē)

    Manner & Method

    Structure

    间接 + Verb

    Explanation

    The adverb 间接 (jiànjiē) means 'indirectly,' describing something that happens through an intermediary rather than in a direct manner. It is the opposite of 直接 (zhíjiē, 'directly') and is used in formal and analytical contexts. Place 间接 before the verb it modifies.

    Examples

    • 这件事间接影响了整个团队的计划。

      zhè jiàn shì jiānjiē yǐngxiǎng le zhěnggè tuánduì de jìhuà.

      This matter indirectly affected the entire team's plans.

    • 吸烟会间接损害家人的健康。

      xīyān huì jiānjiē sǔnhài jiārén de jiànkāng.

      Smoking indirectly harms the health of family members.

    • 他间接地表达了自己的不满。

      tā jiānjiē de biǎodá le zìjǐ de bùmǎn.

      He indirectly expressed his dissatisfaction.

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