What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tangent
Example
The tangent of the angle is equal to the ratio of the length of the opposite side to the length of the adjacent side. [tangent: noun]
Example
I know we were talking about the movie, but let me go off on a tangent for a minute. [tangent: idiom]
Example
The tangent line intersects the circle at exactly one point. [tangent: adjective]
detour
Example
We had to take a detour because of the construction on the highway. [detour: noun]
Example
Let's take a detour and stop by the coffee shop on the way to the museum. [detour: verb]
Example
The detour added an extra hour to our trip. [detour: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Detour is more commonly used than tangent in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts. Tangent, on the other hand, is more commonly used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tangent and detour?
Tangent is typically associated with a more formal tone, while detour can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
