a quick digression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quick digression" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to indicate that you are going to make a brief comment that is related to the main topic but may not be necessary to understanding it. For example, "Before continuing, I'd like to make a quick digression to mention that I recently encountered a similar issue and found a helpful solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But first, a quick digression... when I was a kid, there was a soft drink called "TEEM".

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Quick digression: Whose job is it to come up with names for Panasonic electronics?

TechCrunch

Quick Digression... Looking back... one of the most amusing moments, for me, in the Fillmore East's history was when Bill Graham announced, that due to all kinds of rising costs, ticket prices were gonna go from $5.00 for the orchestra and $4.00 for the mezzanine and $3.00 for the balcony up to the unheard of, the scandalously blatant ripoff prices of, $3.50, $4.50, $5.50.

Huffington Post

But so, eventually, do small variations in the circling or quick digressions from it.

The New York Times - Arts

The finale, for instance, starts as if it is going to be a quick fugato, but it takes many digressions, some restoring the delectable duetting of flute and viola that had been a feature of the slow movement: Patricia Spencer and Lois Martin played those sequences very finely.

The New York Times - Arts

It provides some necessary information (as well as the program's only depiction of sex), but in dramatic terms it's a complete digression, something that now would be covered in a quick montage or a few lines of dialogue.

The New York Times - Arts

"Just a quick blip.

The New Yorker

Just a quick picture.

The New York Times

A QUICK quiz.

The Economist

Want a quick fix?

The New York Times

A quick rinse?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a quick digression" sparingly to maintain focus on your primary topic. Overuse can distract readers.

Common error

Avoid lengthy digressions that lose sight of the original point. A "quick digression" should be brief and relevant, not a complete change of subject.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quick digression" serves as an introductory element, signaling a brief and related departure from the main subject. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Its function is to prepare the reader for a short, explanatory or contextual addition.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quick digression" is a grammatically correct phrase used to introduce a brief departure from the main topic. As Ludwig AI suggests, it’s suitable for adding context or related information without disrupting the flow. While examples are limited, sources like The New York Times and Huffington Post demonstrate its use in news and media. When using this phrase, ensure the digression remains brief, relevant, and doesn't overshadow your primary argument.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief tangent

Replaces "digression" with "tangent", emphasizing a slightly different direction in thought.

a short aside

Uses "aside" instead of "digression", suggesting a brief and separate comment.

a momentary deviation

Emphasizes the temporary departure from the main subject.

a small detour

Uses the metaphor of a journey to represent a temporary change of course.

a passing remark

Highlights the brevity and casual nature of the digression.

a fleeting divergence

Similar to deviation, but suggests a more rapid and less significant departure.

a concise interlude

Frames the digression as a brief and distinct segment within the main topic.

a short parenthesis

Implies the digression is like an explanatory remark inserted into a sentence.

a timely interruption

Suggests the digression serves to break the flow of content with an external idea that adds value to the reader.

a relevant elaboration

Highlights the connection between the digression and main subject, to suggest context and clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "a quick digression" in a sentence?

You can use "a quick digression" to signal a brief departure from your main point. For example, "Before we proceed, let me make "a quick digression" about the historical context."

What's a good alternative to "a quick digression"?

Alternatives include "a brief tangent", "a short aside", or "a momentary deviation", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a quick digression" or "a long digression"?

The choice depends on the length and relevance of your departure. "A quick digression" implies brevity, while "a long digression" suggests a more substantial detour, which might be better introduced with phrases like "a detailed explanation" or "an extensive analysis".

When is it appropriate to use "a quick digression" in writing?

It's appropriate when you want to add related information or context without disrupting the main flow. Ensure the "quick aside" is relevant and doesn't overshadow your primary argument.