Digressing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฃ๏ธ
digressing
[dษชหษกresษชล ]
Definition
during a conversation
To stray away from the main topic or point of conversation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| digressing |
Used when someone is temporarily moving away from the main topic in conversation or writing.
|
| deviate |
Often used in a more formal context when someone or something moves away from an established course, plan, or norm.
|
| wander |
Used when someone moves around aimlessly or without a clear direction, often in a relaxed way. It can also refer to someone's thoughts drifting.
|
| stray |
Can be used when someone or something physically or metaphorically moves away from a particular path or group. It has a mild negative connotation when referring to people losing focus.
|
| veer |
Typically used when there is a sudden or sharp change in direction, either literally or figuratively.
|
Examples of usage
- He kept digressing from the main topic, making it hard to follow his train of thought.
- Sorry for digressing, let's get back to the main point of our discussion.
- She tends to digress when she gets excited about a topic.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Writers and poets often use digression as a tool to explore charactersโ thoughts.
- Famous works like 'Moby Dick' include long, digressive passages that provide detail and context.
- Digressive speeches can create humor, as seen in many plays and novels.
Communication
- In conversations, digressing can lead to unexpected insights or ideas.
- Listeners might enjoy a digression if it is entertaining, but it can also confuse them.
- Effective speakers know when to digress for emphasis but also how to return to the main point.
Psychology
- A wandering train of thought is a natural part of human cognition; digressing reflects our curiosity.
- Studies show creative thinking often involves digressing from the original topic to make connections.
- People may digress as a way to avoid uncomfortable topics or keep a conversation light.
Pop Culture
- Many stand-up comedians use digression as a comedic technique to build tension before delivering a punchline.
- Television shows often include characters who digress to add humor or to develop their personality.
- Podcasts frequently feature digressive discussions, which can enhance listener engagement.
Origin of 'digressing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'digress' comes from the Latin 'digressus', meaning 'to step aside'.
- It entered English usage in the late 14th century, evolving from its Latin root.
- In the 16th century, the concept of digressing became common in literature and academia.
The word 'digress' originated from the Latin word 'digressus', which means 'to step away'. It first appeared in English in the early 16th century. The concept of digressing has been observed in various forms of communication throughout history, as individuals often veer off course from the main subject. The act of digressing can be both intentional, to explore related topics, or unintentional, due to a lack of focus. Overall, digressing is a common linguistic phenomenon that adds depth and nuance to conversations and written works.
See also: digressive.