Go off on a tangent: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Go off on a tangent” mean?

"Go off on a tangent" means to start talking about something unrelated or off-topic.

What context can I use the in?

Example

During the meeting, he went off on a tangent about his vacation plans.

Example

The professor tends to go off on a tangent during his lectures.

Example

I asked her about her day and she went off on a tangent about her favorite TV show

Is “Go off on a tangent” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Go off on a tangent” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Go off on a tangent” effectively in context?

You can use "Go off on a tangent" to describe someone who starts talking about something unrelated or off-topic. It often implies that the person has veered away from the main point or subject of the conversation. For example, if someone starts talking about their weekend plans during a work meeting, you might say, 'Sorry to "go off on a tangent", but can we get back to discussing the project?'

• 1. Meeting

  During the meeting, he went off on a tangent about his vacation plans.

• 2. Lecture

  The professor tends to go off on a tangent during his lectures.

• 3. Casual Conversation

  I asked her about her day and she went off on a tangent about her favorite TV show.

Similar phrases to “Go off on a tangent”:

Get sidetracked

To become distracted or diverted from the main topic or task

Example

I tend to get sidetracked easily and start talking about unrelated things.

Go on a ramble

To talk at length in a wandering or unfocused manner

Example

He went on a ramble about his childhood memories, completely forgetting the original question.

Deviate from the topic

To move away or depart from the main subject of discussion

Example

She deviated from the topic and started talking about her personal experiences.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Go off on a tangent” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Go off on a tangent" is unknown.

Is “Go off on a tangent” common in everyday conversation?

"Go off on a tangent" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe when someone starts talking about something unrelated or off-topic.

What tone does “Go off on a tangent” have?

"Go off on a tangent" conveys a tone of frustration or annoyance. It suggests that the speaker has deviated from the main point or subject of the conversation, causing a disruption or distraction.

Can “Go off on a tangent” be used in informal and formal settings?

"Go off on a tangent" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes a common communication phenomenon. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, presentations, or academic discussions.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He tends to go off on a tangent and lose track of the main topic.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Sorry, I "went off on a tangent" there!' to acknowledge and correct a digression.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• digress
• stray from the point
• wander off-topic
• diverge from the subject
• get off track

Antonyms

• stay on point
• stick to the topic
• remain focused
• stay on track
• keep to the subject