Tangentially: meaning, definitions and examples

To refer to something that is only slightly connected to the main topic or going off on a slight tangent.

• She mentioned it tangentially during our discussion about the project's main goals

To describe something not said or done in a straightforward way, often implying a need to read between the lines.

• He helped indirectly by funding the project, even though his name wasn’t mentioned
• The instructions were given indirectly to avoid any controversy

To signify something that is on the outer edge or margin of the main subject, often with less importance or impact.

• The new regulations affect the company peripherally, mainly by altering some minor procedures
• She is peripherally involved in the project, mainly focusing on minor tasks

To introduce a remark that is not directly related to the main subject but is worth noting; also used to add additional but less important information.

• Incidentally, did you know that she also volunteers at the animal shelter? Our main topic was the meeting agenda, but she mentioned her weekend plans incidentally

Used when referring to something that is only slightly or indirectly related to the main topic. Typically used in more formal or academic settings.

• The speaker touched on the subject tangentially, without going into much detail
• The committee's discussion was tangentially related to the main agenda

Used to describe something said or done in an indirect way, often to avoid being too direct or blunt. Can sometimes carry a negative connotation of evasion.

• She answered the question obliquely, avoiding any clear commitment
• The article criticized the policy obliquely, without naming specific officials

Used to describe something that is only slightly important or relevant, often used in a statistical or quantitative context.

• The profits increased marginally this quarter
• His contribution to the project was marginally significant

Used when describing something that is weakly or barely connected. Often implies a sense of fragility or uncertainty.

• The evidence presented was tenuously linked to the crime
• His theory is tenuously supported by the available data