Adverb
/əˈbliːkli/
"Obliquely" refers to a manner that is not straightforward or direct. It can describe a physical angle, indicating something that is slanted, or a figurative way of speaking or behaving that avoids directness. The word is moderately used in both oral and written contexts but is more common in written language, particularly in academic or formal writing.
Translation: Он косвенно намекнул, что могут быть скрытые проблемы с проектом.
The painting was hung obliquely on the wall, catching the light in an interesting way.
Translation: Картина была повешена под углом на стене, интересно отражая свет.
She obliquely referred to her childhood memories during the speech.
The adverb "obliquely" does not frequently appear in idiomatic expressions, but it can evoke nuances in certain phrases. Here are some applicable idiomatic expressions:
Translation: Документы были расположены косвенно, что затрудняло поиск важных деталей.
Obliquely aimed - Used when describing a goal that is not directly targeted.
Translation: Его косвенные комментарии заставили всех гадать, что же он действительно думает.
Obliquely connected - Referring to connections that are not straightforward.
The term "obliquely" originates from the Latin word "obliquus," meaning "slanting" or "indirect." The prefix "ob-" indicates "against" or "toward," combined with "liquus," which means "liquid" or "flowing," thus creating the connotation of a deviation from a straight line.
In summary, "obliquely" serves to convey indirectness or a slant in both literal and figurative contexts, and while it is less common in everyday conversation, it plays a significant role in more formal or literary forms of discourse.