What does oblique mean?
Oblique describes something that is slanting or angled rather than straight, perpendicular, or parallel. It can describe a line, surface, beam of light, or other physical object, as in “an oblique angle.” Figuratively, it describes an indirect approach, reference, or remark: an oblique explanation may avoid stating something directly, and an oblique comment can suggest criticism or a concealed meaning. The word is common in formal and technical contexts, especially geometry, and it often carries a slightly literary or analytical tone. Compared with “indirect,” oblique can emphasize deliberate evasiveness or complexity, while compared with “slanting,” it is more formal and may describe a precise geometric relationship. Understanding both its literal and figurative senses helps explain why oblique language can be either carefully designed or intentionally difficult to interpret.
adjectiveSlanting or angled rather than straight, perpendicular, or parallel to a given line or surface. In a figurative sense, oblique means indirect, indirect in purpose, or deliberately indirect in expression.
- Angled, slanting, or not perpendicular or parallel to a reference line or plane.
- Indirect or circuitous, especially in reference to a purpose, approach, or explanation.
- Deliberately indirect in expression, sometimes suggesting that a remark has a concealed meaning or criticism.
"The architect designed an entrance with an oblique line that immediately drew attention."
"The beam of light struck the wall at an oblique angle."
"His oblique comment about the new policy left everyone uncertain about his opinion."
Oblique comes from the Latin obliquus, meaning “slanting,” so the word still carries its original idea of something leaning away from a straight course.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does oblique come from?
Oblique comes through French from Latin obliquus, meaning “slanting” or “turned aside.” The Latin word developed from ob-, meaning “against” or “toward,” and a root associated with bending or turning. Its English descendants include the adverb “obliquely” and the noun “obliquity,” while the cognate adjective “obliquous” is now uncommon.
Related word forms
How oblique is actually used
In formal writing, “oblique” often suggests an indirect approach or an intentionally veiled meaning. Its use in geometry and descriptive contexts is straightforward, while “oblique strategy” can imply an unconventional or indirect tactic.