indirect evidence

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Explanation of "Indirect Evidence"

Definition:
"Indirect evidence" refers to information or clues that do not directly prove something but suggest that it might be true. It's like a hint or a sign that leads you to think a certain way about a situation.

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "indirect evidence" can be used in scientific research or legal discussions. For example, in a legal case, a lawyer might say, "While we lack direct evidence linking the defendant to the crime, the indirect evidence strongly suggests their involvement."

Word Variants

• Direct Evidence: This is the opposite of indirect evidence. It refers to proof that directly supports a fact or claim.
• Inference: This is a noun that means a conclusion reached based on indirect evidence.

Different Meanings

While "indirect evidence" primarily refers to clues in investigations or arguments, it can also apply in everyday situations. For example, if a friend is often late, you might have indirect evidence of their poor time management if they frequently miss appointments.

Synonyms

• Circumstantial evidence: This is often used interchangeably with indirect evidence, especially in legal contexts.
• Hints
• Clues

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• "Read between the lines": This idiom means to understand the hidden meaning or to find indirect evidence in what someone says.
• "Connect the dots": This phrasal verb means to make sense of various pieces of indirect evidence to understand a bigger picture.

Academic

Noun

1. evidence providing only a basis for inference about the fact in dispute

Synonyms

• circumstantial evidence