When engaging in conversations or writing, there may be instances when you want to express the idea of going off-topic or straying away from the main point. In these cases, the word “digress” comes to the rescue. In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “digress” in both formal and informal settings. Additionally, we will provide tips and examples to help you understand the word better. So, let’s dive in!
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Formal Ways to Say “Digress”
When communicating in formal contexts, it is important to use appropriate language. Here are some formal alternatives to the word “digress”:
- Deviate: This word signifies moving away from the central topic or straying from the main point in a formal manner. For example: “Let’s not deviate from the core issue at hand.”
- Diverge: A formal synonym of “digress,” it suggests moving away from the original subject or taking a different direction. For instance: “The conversation began to diverge, and we lost track of our initial purpose.”
- Veering off course: This expression is often used in formal speeches or presentations to convey the idea of digressing without being too informal. For example: “Apologies for veering off course, but I believe it’s vital to address this parallel concern.”
- Departing from the topic: This phrase is commonly used in formal writing to signify moving away from the central subject matter. For instance: “Let’s avoid departing from the topic and focus on the key points.”
- Straying from the subject: This formal expression emphasizes going off-topic or moving away from the main point of discussion. For example: “He has a tendency to stray from the subject, making it difficult to stay on track.”
Informal Ways to Say “Digress”
When engaging in casual conversations or writing informally, you may want to use more relaxed language. Here are some informal alternatives to the word “digress”:
- Go off on a tangent: This phrase is commonly used in informal conversations to express going off-topic or wandering away from the central idea. For instance: “Sorry for going off on a tangent, but have you heard about the latest movie release?”
- Get sidetracked: This expression indicates losing focus or becoming distracted from the main subject. For example: “We tend to get sidetracked during our discussions and end up talking about random things.”
- Ramble: Informally, “ramble” suggests talking at length without a clear direction or purpose. For instance: “He tends to ramble during conversations, often digressing into unrelated anecdotes.”
- Wander off-topic: This phrase is commonly used in informal writing to convey the idea of moving away from the central subject matter. For example: “Let’s not wander off-topic here, we have a lot to cover.”
- Go down a rabbit hole: This informal expression originates from the well-known story of Alice in Wonderland, and it implies becoming engrossed in a secondary topic or detail. For instance: “Apologies if I go down a rabbit hole, but this is relevant to our discussion.”
Tip: While these informal alternatives to “digress” can add variety to your language, it is important to consider the context and the level of formality required in a conversation or piece of writing.
Examples in Context
To help you understand the usage of these alternatives, here are a few examples in different contexts:
Formal Examples:
1. The speaker skillfully avoided deviating from the main topic, ensuring a clear and structured presentation.
2. The discussion diverged towards unrelated issues, and we struggled to get back on track.
3. Despite veering off course briefly, the speaker managed to reengage the audience by addressing a parallel concern.
4. The report should stay focused on the main findings, without departing from the topic.
5. The committee chair had to intervene as the discussion repeatedly strayed from the subject at hand.
Informal Examples:
1. Sorry if I go off on a tangent, but did you hear about the hilarious incident that happened last night?
2. During our chat, we got sidetracked and ended up discussing our favorite travel destinations.
3. He tends to ramble during conversations, often sharing amusing stories that are somewhat unrelated.
4. Let’s not wander off-topic here, we have a lot to cover in today’s meeting.
5. I might go down a rabbit hole here, but I believe this story is relevant to our conversation.
Now that you have a range of formal and informal alternatives to express “digress,” you can choose the most suitable option depending on your context and audience. Remember, effective communication is all about clarity, and using appropriate language helps convey your messages accurately. We hope this guide has been helpful in expanding your vocabulary and providing you with valuable alternatives to say “digress.”
Tip: It’s always a good practice to keep your language consistent and consider the formality required in your setting.
