Digressively - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adverb}

speaking style

In a manner that departs from the main subject. This term is often used to describe a conversation or writing that strays from the main point, leading to a less focused discussion.

Synonyms

deviantly, meanderingly, ramblingly.

Examples of usage

The speaker digressively talked about his childhood before returning to the main topic.
She often digressively includes anecdotes in her lectures.
His digressively lengthy explanations made it hard to follow the main argument.

Interesting Facts

Literature

Some authors use digression as a stylistic device to add humor or depth to their narratives.
In classic literature, characters often digress during conversations to give the reader a broader context.
This technique can enhance storytelling by revealing character thoughts or historical context without disrupting the plot.

Psychology

Digressive thought can occur when someone is overwhelmed or distracted, leading to deviations from original ideas.
Cognitive load research suggests that when processing complex information, individuals may digress as a coping strategy.
Mental pauses during conversation, often leading to digressively, can help the speaker organize their thoughts.

Communication

In conversation, digressing can serve to build rapport, providing personal anecdotes to create connections.
Navigating digressive speech can show a person's social intelligence by allowing flexibility in dialogues.
However, excessive digressing can lead to misunderstandings if the original point is lost.

Pop Culture

Many stand-up comedians use digressive humor, veering off-topic to create laughter through unexpected twists.
In podcasts, hosts often digress to maintain listener engagement through storytelling.
Television shows with episodic formats may include characters who digress, reflecting real-life conversations.

Origin of 'digressively'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from 'digress', which has Latin roots meaning 'to step aside'.
Originally part of academic and literary language, the term has evolved in usage over centuries.
The suffix '-ively' is used to form adverbs, indicating a manner of doing something.

The word 'digressively' is derived from the verb 'digress', which comes from the Latin word 'digressus', the past participle of 'digredi', meaning 'to go aside'. The prefix 'di-' signifies 'apart' or 'asunder', while 'gress' comes from the Latin 'gradi', meaning 'to step'. Thus, 'digress' literally translates to 'step aside'. The adverbial form 'digressively' was formed by adding the suffix '-ly', denoting the manner of the action. Historically, the term has been utilized in both literary and spoken contexts to critique or describe deviations from a main argument or narrative, signifying a lack of focus or coherence in discourse. This word has been prevalent in English literature and academia, particularly in discussions regarding communication and writing styles.

Digressively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations