elliptically

[ ih-lip-tik-lee ]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of elliptically¹

First recorded in 1810–20; elliptical + -ly

Example Sentences

During a Pittsburgh stop earlier this month, Biden spoke elliptically about Trump’s trial, betting his audience was already in on the joke.

From Seattle Times

It’s also one of a number of movies that, by turns bluntly and elliptically, either focus on young people or on adults grappling with childhood in some manner.

From New York Times

Set in contemporary Beijing, the story emerges elliptically, as does Gu Wentong.

From New York Times

“You have to start dreaming,” he says elliptically.

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times