indirect behavior
[/ɪndɪˈrɛkt bɪˈheɪvjər/]
nounpl: indirect behaviors
comportamento indireto
1. Actions or conduct that achieve a goal or express an intention in an oblique, roundabout, or non-straightforward manner rather than through direct means
His indirect behavior of constantly making sarcastic comments was his way of expressing disapproval without stating it openly.
Seu comportamento indireto de fazer constantemente comentários sarcásticos era sua forma de expressar desaprovação sem declará-la abertamente.
2. In psychology and communication, behavior that suggests or implies something without explicitly stating or showing it
The employee's indirect behavior—avoiding eye contact and staying silent in meetings—indicated her discomfort with the new policy.
O comportamento indireto da funcionária—evitar contato visual e ficar em silêncio nas reuniões—indicava seu desconforto com a nova política.
3. Passive-aggressive or non-confrontational actions taken to address a problem or concern
Rather than speaking to her roommate directly, she engaged in indirect behavior by cleaning aggressively whenever dishes were left in the sink.
Em vez de falar com sua colega de quarto diretamente, ela se engajou em comportamento indireto limpando agressivamente sempre que havia pratos na pia.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, indirect behavior is often viewed negatively in professional settings where direct communication is valued. However, in some Brazilian and Portuguese contexts, indirect behavior may be used as a tactful way to maintain social harmony and avoid confrontation, reflecting cultural values around respect and relationship preservation. In American workplace culture, indirect behavior is frequently associated with passive-aggression and seen as unprofessional.
NYC Slang
passive-aggressive move / playing games
Related Idioms & Phrases
beating around the bush
reading between the lines
getting the message indirectly
subtle approach
jogo de cintura (Brazilian: playing it cool/indirect maneuvering)
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