direct
direct Lexical Profile
direct Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Proceeding from one point to another in time or space without deviation, curve, or interruption; straight.
"Taking the express train is the most direct route to the city center."
Occurring without intervening persons, agencies, conditions, or intermediaries; immediate and personal.
"The scientist had direct access to the primary research data."
Frank, open, and straightforward in speech, manner, or expression, leaving nothing merely implied.
"She gave a direct answer to the committee's tough questions."
• verb
To supervise and guide the artistic performance and production of a film, play, television program, or musical ensemble.
"The acclaimed filmmaker agreed to direct the upcoming historical drama."
To control, manage, or supervise the operations, staff, or conduct of an organization, project, or activity.
"She was hired to direct the university's new environmental research institute."
To tell or show someone the way to a destination, or to give an authoritative order or instruction.
"The museum guard kindly offered to direct the visitors to the main gallery."
To aim, point, or focus something toward a particular target, goal, or recipient.
"Please direct all inquiries regarding the scholarship to the admissions office."
• adverb
Without an intermediate stop, diversion, or intervening agent along the way.
"We flew direct from London to Tokyo and saved several hours of travel time."
Word Nuance & Usage
As an adverb, 'direct' is typically used in contexts involving travel, shipping, or communication to mean 'without intermediate stops or agents' (e.g., 'fly direct'), whereas 'directly' more broadly means 'immediately' or 'in a straight manner.'
• Rhymes for direct
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Adopted in Middle English from the Latin 'directus,' the past participle of 'dirigere' ('to set straight' or 'to guide'), formed from 'dis-' ('apart') and 'regere' ('to rule' or 'to guide').