indirect characterization

[in-duh-rekt kar-ik-ter-uh-zey-shuhn, kar-ik-truh-zey-shuhn, in-dahy-rekt]

noun

1. the process by which the personality of a fictitious character is revealed through the character's speech, actions, appearance, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of indirect characterization¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

There is indirect characterization, unexplained subtext and acting without talking.

From New York Times

When To Use

What is indirect characterization?

Indirect characterization is a method of indicating what a character is like by revealing their personality through descriptions of their actions, speech, appearance, and interactions with other characters.Characterization is the process of making a character (usually a fictional one but not always) seem like a fully fledged person by providing details about their personality. Indirect characterization contrasts with direct characterization, in which the character’s personality traits are stated directly.In most creative works, characterization is done through a mix of both direct and indirect methods. For example, the author could say “Amber was the bravest girl in the third grade” (direct characterization) and then later show Amber chasing down bank robbers (indirect characterization).