digressing from the main point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "digressing from the main point" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a situation where someone has strayed from the primary topic of conversation or writing. Example: "While his story was entertaining, he kept digressing from the main point, making it hard to follow his argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

First, to digress from the main point for a moment, aren't there serious ethical problems with this experiment?

The New Yorker

Although the book begins with a discussion of genetics and the hygiene hypothesis, it quickly digresses into issues less relevant to the main point of the book, such as new diagnostic tests.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

In his speech, the President digressed from the main theme to claim that his Administration has created almost a million new jobs adding that the kingdom's pledge to invest billions more in the United States would create thousands more new jobs.

The New Yorker

They're making serious investments in clean energy because they want those jobs". Obama's handlers can be terribly tough on Biden for digressing from the narrow point they want him to make.

The Washington Post

Back to the main point.

BBC

Identify the Main Point using Contrasts.

WikiHow

The main point succeeds completely.

The New Yorker

This is the main point to make".

Independent

But he had the main point right.

The New York Times

That's the main point.

Yale University

Here is the main point.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "digressing from the main point" in writing, ensure that you signal this departure to your reader (e.g., with phrases like "To digress for a moment...").

Common error

Avoid digressing excessively or without clear purpose, as it can confuse your audience and weaken your overall message. If you do digress, make sure to circle back to the main point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "digressing from the main point" functions as a verbal phrase that describes the act of deviating or straying away from the central idea or subject under discussion. It highlights a departure from the core topic, often indicating a shift in focus to a secondary or unrelated issue. Ludwig AI confirms that it's perfectly usable in written english.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "digressing from the main point" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, employed to describe a departure from a central topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it signals a shift away from the core subject. While not exceedingly common, its presence across diverse sources—including news, scientific, and academic contexts—underscores its versatility. To ensure clarity in your communication, use this phrase judiciously and always aim to steer back to the primary subject after a digression. Alternatives include "straying from the point" or "deviating from the subject".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Straying from the point

Highlights the act of moving away from the central argument.

Deviating from the subject

A more formal way of saying "digressing from the main point".

Departing from the main theme

Formal alternative, emphasizing the act of leaving the central theme.

Wandering off-topic

Focuses on the act of straying away, implying a lack of direction.

Getting lost in digressions

Emphasizes the state of being caught up in side topics.

Getting sidetracked

Emphasizes interruption and diversion from the intended path.

Straying into irrelevancies

Highlights the introduction of irrelevant information.

Going off on a tangent

Suggests a sudden and noticeable shift in topic.

Veering off course

Implies a loss of direction and a departure from the intended path.

Losing focus

Highlights a lack of concentration and a shift in attention.

FAQs

How can I use "digressing from the main point" in a sentence?

You can use "digressing from the main point" to indicate that someone is moving away from the central topic. For example, "While his story was entertaining, he kept "digressing from the main point", making it hard to follow his argument."

What can I say instead of "digressing from the main point"?

You can use alternatives like "straying from the main topic" or "deviating from the central issue", depending on the context.

Is it always bad to digress in writing or speaking?

Not necessarily. Digressions can add color and interest, but it’s crucial to ensure they serve a purpose and don’t overshadow the main argument or confuse the audience. A well-placed digression can enhance understanding or engagement.

How can I prevent myself from "digressing from the main point" in a presentation?

Prepare a detailed outline and stick to it. If you feel the need to include a related but tangential point, acknowledge it as a digression and make sure to bring the discussion back to the core topic promptly.