Digression: meaning, definitions and examples

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digression

[ dɪˈɡrɛʃ(ə)n ]

^{Context #1}

in conversation

A temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing.

Synonyms

deviation, divergence, tangent

Examples of usage

Let's not get into any digressions and stick to the topic at hand.
His digressions often made his lectures more engaging for the students.

^{Context #2}

literature

A passage or section that deviates from the central theme in writing.

Synonyms

aside, detour, excursus

Examples of usage

The novel includes several digressions that provide background information.
The digression in the essay added depth to the author's argument.

Translations

Translations of the word "digression" in other languages:

🇵🇹 digressão

🇮🇳 विचलन

🇩🇪 Abweichung

🇮🇩 penyimpangan

🇺🇦 відступ

🇵🇱 dygresja

🇯🇵 逸脱 (いつだつ)

🇫🇷 digression

🇪🇸 digresión

🇹🇷 sapma

🇰🇷 일탈

🇸🇦 استطراد

🇨🇿 odbočení

🇸🇰 odbočenie

🇨🇳 离题 (lítí)

🇸🇮 odmik

🇮🇸 frávik

🇰🇿 ауытқу

🇬🇪 გადახრა

🇦🇿 sapma

🇲🇽 digresión

Word origin

The word 'digression' originated from the Latin word 'digressio', which means 'a stepping away from'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century. The concept of digression has been used in literature and rhetoric to provide additional information or side stories that enrich the main narrative. Digressions can add depth and complexity to a piece of writing, offering insights and perspectives that enhance the reader's understanding.