So by indirect I mean something which isn't quite a compliment but is kinda implied as such. My classic example is when I tell people I read my degree in physics and they say 'oh, that's really difficult' or similar. I've learnt to be genuine and thankful when receiving more direct compliments, but it kinda comes across as a bit assuming to say 'oh thank you' etc. to my example. Agreeing e.g. 'yeah, it is' sounds equally wrong. But I'm also not gonna play it down and say 'nah, it's not that hard' cos it damn well was. So what's the 'appropriate' response to these sort of implied compliments? I know it's a tiny thing but I get hung up on it waaay too much.