Tangent: meaning, definitions and examples

In everyday language, tangent is often used metaphorically to describe a thought or discussion that veers off the main topic or course.

• Sorry, I went off on a tangent and lost track of the main point

This is a less formal way to describe a line that touches a curve at a single point. It is often used in a descriptive context when precision of mathematical terms is not necessary.

• He drew a touching line to show how close the curve comes to the axis

Another mathematical term, secant refers to a line that intersects a curve at two or more points.

• The secant intersects the circle at points A and B

When someone suddenly shifts away from the main point of a topic, often in a brief and unrelated manner.

• He was talking about his new job, but then he went off on a tangent about his vacation.

When there is a temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing. This can be longer and more noticeable than a tangent.

• Her essay included a lengthy digression about the history of tea, which was interesting but not relevant to the assignment.

When ideas, paths, or opinions move apart. Often used in more formal or technical contexts, such as discussions of theories, trends, or directions.

• The divergence in their political views eventually led to heated debates.

Use this word when referring to a line or curve that touches a circle or another curve at just one point without crossing it. It is often used in mathematics and geometry.

• The line is a tangent to the circle at point A.
• In geometry class, we learned how to draw tangents to a curve.

This is a more general term that can be used in various contexts to indicate that one thing makes contact with another. It is common in everyday language to refer to physical contact or emotional impact.

• The cat likes to touch my hand with its paw.
• Her kind words really touched my heart.

This word is used when two or more lines, roads, or paths cross or meet each other at a single point. It is commonly used in mathematics, urban planning, and general conversation about paths and lines.

• The two highways intersect near the downtown area.
• In the graph, the two lines intersect at the origin.