tangent

Vocabulary Word

Definition

'Tangent' is when someone moves away from the main point or subject and starts talking about something different. Like when you're in a meeting about sales, but suddenly discuss the lunch menu!

Examples in Different Contexts

In business meetings, avoiding 'tangents' is crucial to maintain focus and efficiency. A team leader might advise, 'Let’s stick to the agenda and avoid going off on tangents to ensure a productive discussion and timely resolution of the issues at hand.'

Practice Scenarios

Creative

Scenario:

I hope you have some fresh ideas for the new fashion line. We should be careful to keep the designs aligned with our brand's aesthetic.

Response:

We should focus on the new fashion line and not get lost on a tangent about last season’s trends.

Impact

Scenario:

Recent studies show a significant increase in carbon emissions. We need to strategize our next steps to mitigate this trend.

Response:

Concentrating on carbon emissions is important. We shouldn’t go on tangents about other environmental issues right now.