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Definition direct in British English

direct adjective

adjective
/dɪˈrekt/

▪ access, contact, intervention, involvement, link, relevance, result

1

going straight to a place and not stopping or changing direction on the way there

Example

direct flights from Scotland to North America

Example

There is a more direct route straight up the motorway.

Example

The building had taken a direct hit and was completely destroyed.

Synonyms and related words
2

involving only the two people or things mentioned and with no one or nothing else coming in between

Example

Only a few of us have direct access to the files.

Example

Employees have little direct contact with management.

Example

Their study found a direct link between poverty and crime.

Example

Companies have closed as a direct result of the new law.

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3

exact

Example

That's a direct quote from the man himself.

Example

Martin's brother is his direct opposite in character.

Example

The rewards will be in direct proportion to the work you put in.

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4

direct heat or light comes straight at a person or object and is not reflected or reduced in strength

Example

Plant in a shady position away from direct sunlight.

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5

saying what you really think in a very clear and honest way

Example

I love New Yorkers - they're sharp, funny, and direct.

Example

She's refused to answer direct questions about her plans for the company.

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6

related through your parents, grandparents etc and not through other relatives such as uncles or aunts

Example

Steve says he's a direct descendant of William Shakespeare.

Synonyms and related words
Definition direct in British English