direct
Definitions
Going straight from one point to another, without anything in between.
直接的，径直的；中间无阻隔的。
Honest and straightforward in manner or speech.
直率的，坦率的。
To guide, control, or manage; to aim something toward a target.
指导，管理；指挥；使对准（目标）。
To supervise the making of a film, play, or program.
导演，执导（电影、戏剧等）。
Straight, without stopping or going through anything else.
直接地，径直地（不中转）。
Root Breakdown
Root-deriveddīrigere = dis- (apart, in directions) + regere (rule, keep straight) → rectus (straight). So direct means to set on a straight, aimed course. From that single image: a direct route (straight path), a direct manner (no detours in speech), to direct a project (guide it on course), and to direct a film (aim every part toward one vision).
Root rig still carries 15 more wordsUsage Guide
direct spans adjective, verb, and adverb. As an adverb it means "without stopping" (fly direct to Paris) and overlaps with directly, though directly also means "immediately." Pronunciation varies: both /dɪˈrekt/ and /daɪˈrekt/ are standard. The film/management sense (direct a movie, direct a team) and the "aim" sense (direct your anger elsewhere) are both very common.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Is there a direct flight from here to Tokyo?
- 2.
I appreciate that she was direct about her concerns.
- 3.
A teacher directed us to the main entrance.
- 4.
She has directed several award-winning documentaries.