1
Core quality
Indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
Example
The essay makes an oblique reference to the earlier dispute.
oblique
/əˈbliːk/ · uh-BLEEKadjective
Indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
Use oblique to express this relationship precisely: indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
What oblique Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Attributive or predicative use
Use this adjective before a suitable noun or after a linking verb such as be or seem.
Example
His oblique response avoided the central question.
3
Analytical distinction
Choose it when this exact descriptive quality matters; a related word may overlap without conveying the same trait.
Example
The painting offers an oblique critique through symbolism.
Use oblique Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The essay makes an oblique reference to the earlier dispute.
His oblique response avoided the central question.
The painting offers an oblique critique through symbolism.
Precision Matters
Oblique overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
oblique
vs.Means indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
opaque
Means not allowing light through; figuratively, difficult or impossible to understand.
oblique
vs.Means indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
implicit
Means implied or understood without being directly stated.
oblique
vs.Means indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
explicit
Means stated directly and with complete clarity.
oblique
vs.Means indirect, slanting, or not expressed in a straightforward way.
lucid
Means clear, coherent, and easy to understand.
Test oblique in Context
The allusion communicates criticism indirectly.
1
Rather than accuse the official directly, the author makes an ___ allusion to the scandal.