elliptically

American  

[ih-lip-tik-lee] / ɪˈlɪp tɪk li /

adverb

1. in the form of an ellipse.

2. in an elliptical manner; by an ellipse.

3. with great economy of words or expression; concisely.

   to speak elliptically.

4. without sufficient transition or a logical connection between thoughts, ideas, or expressions; ambiguously or cryptically.

   to jump elliptically from generalities to specifics.

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Etymology

Origin of elliptically

First recorded in 1810–20; elliptical + -ly

Example Sentences

For much of the novel, Mr. Banville teases us in a similar manner, hinting at the truth behind Laura’s disappearance so elliptically that he risks testing our patience.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 9, 2025

Mulaney referred to the fires elliptically when discussing last year's Los Angeles series.

From Salon • Jan. 30, 2025

At most, he might relate some happy ending elliptically, without dwelling on the harrowing circumstances preceding it.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 5, 2023

But the installation titled “Diver” features a stainless-steel plumb bob swinging elliptically over the level surface of a container of water that sits on the Guggenheim’s sloping ramp.

From Washington Post • Apr. 14, 2023

“In the meanwhile,” he observed rather elliptically, “the voice of the nation will perhaps be heard.”

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis