Definition

Noun: An expression of a desire or inclination that is not stated openly or directly. It is a way of communicating a want or need through implication, suggestion, or related actions, rather than through explicit words.

Usage

An "indirect request" is used when someone wants to communicate a need or desire without asking for it outright. This can be due to politeness, shyness, social strategy, or an attempt to avoid imposition. The listener must infer the actual request from the context or the speaker's behavior.

Examples

• His constant comments about being cold were an indirect request for me to close the window.
• She mentioned how much she admired my necklace, which I understood as an indirect request to try it on.
• Saying "It's dark in here" can be an indirect request for someone to turn on the light.
• The child's crying was an indirect request for attention.

Advanced Usage

• In Pragmatics: In linguistic studies, an indirect request is a classic example of an "indirect speech act," where the literal meaning of the sentence differs from its intended communicative force (e.g., "Can you pass the salt?" is literally a question about ability but is conventionally used as a request for action).
• Cultural Nuance: The use and interpretation of indirect requests can vary significantly across cultures. In some cultures, direct requests may be considered rude, making indirect requests the norm for polite interaction.

Variants and Related Words

• Hint (n.): A slight or indirect indication or suggestion.
  • She dropped a hint about her preferred birthday gift.
• Implied request (n. phrase): A request that is suggested without being directly expressed.
• Prompt (n.): An act of encouraging or reminding someone to do something, which can sometimes be indirect.

Synonyms

• Hint
• Suggestion
• Implication
• Allusion
• Intimation

Antonyms

• Direct request
• Explicit demand
• Command
• Order

Related Phrases and Concepts

• To read between the lines: To look for or understand a hidden or implied meaning.
  • You have to read between the lines to understand her indirect requests.
• To take the hint: To understand and act on an indirect suggestion.
  • I talked about my empty gas tank, but he didn't take the hint to offer me a ride.
• Veiled request: A request that is deliberately disguised or concealed.

Noun

1. an expression of some desire or inclination
   • I could tell that it was his wish that the guests leave
   • his crying was an indirect request for attention