间接

间接 means 'indirectly' or 'through an intermediary.' It describes a method or process that does not involve direct contact or action, often implying a roundabout or mediated approach.

The character 间 (jiān) originally meant 'interval' or 'space,' and later came to signify 'between' or 'among.' 接 (jiē) means 'to connect' or 'to touch.' Together, they suggest a connection through an intermediate space or method, which aligns with the idea of indirectness.

Indirect is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. For example, it can describe communication, actions, or results that are not direct. In Chinese culture, indirectness is often valued in social interactions to maintain harmony and avoid confrontation.