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tangent
IPA:

Dictionary definition of tangent
A completely different line of thought or action that is not related to the current topic or situation.
"Her story was interesting, but it went off on a tangent and lost its focus."
Detailed meaning of tangent
This usage is often employed metaphorically, drawing on the mathematical concept of a tangent, which refers to a line that touches a curve at only one point and does not intersect it at any other point. In a similar way, a tangent in conversation or thought refers to a sudden departure from the main topic or idea, leading into a completely different area of discussion. This can be frustrating for those involved in the conversation, as it can disrupt the flow of ideas and make it difficult to stay focused. However, tangents can also be a valuable source of new ideas and perspectives, especially in creative or exploratory contexts. Ultimately, the use of tangents in conversation or thought is a balancing act between staying on track and remaining open to new possibilities.
In mathematics, a tangent is a concept that refers to the slope of a line that touches a curve or a function at exactly one point, without crossing it. The tangent line is a straight line that is "just touching" the curve at a single point, which is called the point of tangency. The slope of this line is equal to the rate of change of the function at that point, which is also known as the derivative of the function.
Example sentences containing tangent
1. The conversation about travel plans quickly went off on a tangent about exotic cuisines.
2. During the math class, the teacher went off on a tangent about the history of calculus.
3. The physics lecture took an unexpected tangent into the realm of quantum mechanics.
4. When discussing the project, he often veered off on tangents unrelated to the main topic.
5. The musician's improvisation took the song in a unique tangent, surprising the audience.
6. Let's not get sidetracked by tangents; we need to stay on schedule for the meeting.
History and etymology of tangent
The noun 'tangent' has its origins in Latin, coming from the word 'tangens,' which is the present participle of 'tangere,' meaning 'to touch.' In mathematics, a 'tangent' refers to a line that touches a curve at a single point without crossing it, and this geometric concept was adopted into English in the 17th century. Over time, 'tangent' took on a more figurative sense to describe a completely different line of thought or action that touches or intersects with the current topic or situation briefly but does not follow the same course. The etymology of 'tangent' underscores the idea that this new line of thought or action briefly touches the main subject but then diverges in a different direction, often without direct relevance or connection to the original topic.
Further usage examples of tangent
1. The novel's tangent into a dream sequence added an element of surrealism.
2. The professor's tangent about the origins of language was both informative and entertaining.
3. The conversation about travel plans quickly went off on a tangent about exotic cuisines.
4. The artist's work often explores the tangent between reality and illusion.
5. As we discussed our hobbies, we found a tangent in our shared love for hiking.
6. The discussion took an unexpected tangent when someone brought up conspiracy theories.
7. The film's tangent into a flashback revealed the character's hidden motivations.
8. He couldn't resist going off on a tangent about his favorite science fiction series.
9. The team meeting was productive until it went on a tangent discussing office decorations.
10. The project manager had to redirect the team when they went off on a tangent.
11. Her tangent about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle inspired everyone in the room.
12. The politician's speech often veered off on tangents that confused the audience.
13. Let's stay focused on the main goal and avoid getting lost in tangents.
14. The discussion about art history led to an interesting tangent about famous art forgeries.
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TOEFL 7, Irregular and Unpredictable, Discussion and Argumentation
deviation,meander,veer
aside,departure,detour,digression,diversion,drift,swerve
Synonyms for tangent
Quiz categories containing tangent
divergence, relevance, connection, pertinence
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