minor digression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "minor digression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate a small deviation from the main topic or subject of discussion. Example: "Before we return to the main argument, I’d like to make a minor digression about the historical context of this issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

There had been one minor digression from this carefully plotted course--the part of Rosalind in a high school production of "As You Like It".

Los Angeles Times

At this moment if I were using footnotes in my Letters I would have the asterisk direct you to the bottom of the page and make optional your reading this minor digression to the main theme of this opening.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

He likes minor keys and mellow digressions; instead of churning round and round (here comes that chorus again!), his songs often seem to be drifting away.

The New York Times - Arts

The focal plagal progression returns transformed at the end of the movement, with even subtler chromatic coloration and more distant modulations, touching on C major, before the piece finally ends in the tonic, the theme now weakened and given an illusory quality due to the evasion of cadences, free modulation, and tendency toward digression into troubled minor passages.

Wikipedia

But such digressions are only minor irritations compared with the many disconnected detours the book takes through the author's holidays with his daughter and his experiences as an amateur bullfighter.

The Guardian - Books

The Book of Lord Shang (but not Han Feizi) allowed for the possibility that in the future the need for excessive reliance on coercion would end and a milder, morality-driven political structure would evolve, but these utopian digressions are of minor importance in the text (Pines 2013a).

SEP

But I digress (from my digression).

TechCrunch

(A digression for those who skipped grade-school music class or never had one: Why does the minor chord make the heart hang heavy?

The New Yorker

A "Times" reporter tried to pin him down, but Vickrey quickly dismissed his prize-winning 1961 paper as "one of my digressions into abstract economics". And he went on to say, "At best, it's of minor significance in terms of human welfare". Vickrey died just three days after winning the prize, but his last words on his subject should not be forgotten.

The New Yorker

Digression over.

The New York Times

Whence the long digression.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "minor digression" to signal to your audience that you are briefly departing from the main topic and will return to it shortly, ensuring they understand the structure of your writing or speech.

Common error

Avoid frequent and lengthy digressions, as they can confuse your audience and detract from your main point. A "minor digression" should be brief and relevant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "minor digression" functions as a noun phrase where "minor" modifies "digression". It typically introduces a brief departure from the main subject, as shown in Ludwig's examples, signalling a temporary shift in focus.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "minor digression" is a grammatically correct phrase used to indicate a brief departure from the main topic. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, although it is relatively rare. It appears most frequently in news and media, academia, and scientific contexts. To use it effectively, ensure the digression is brief and relevant, avoiding overuse to maintain clarity. Related phrases include "slight tangent" and "brief detour". Remember to signal your intention to return to the main topic after the "minor digression".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight tangent

Emphasizes the deviation as a line that briefly veers off course.

brief detour

Highlights the temporary nature of leaving the main subject.

small deviation

Uses more general terms to indicate a departure from the central point.

short aside

Suggests a brief and informal comment or observation.

passing remark

Focuses on the brevity and incidental nature of the digression.

quick interlude

Implies a short break or pause in the main discussion.

fleeting tangent

Similar to "slight tangent" but emphasizes the temporary nature of the diversion.

parenthetical comment

Describes the digression as an additional, explanatory remark.

incidental note

Highlights that the digression is secondary and not essential.

offhand comment

Suggests the digression is casual and not thoroughly considered.

FAQs

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

You can use "minor digression" to introduce a small deviation from the main topic. For example: "Before we delve deeper into the main issue, allow me a "minor digression" to provide some background information."

What are some alternatives to "minor digression"?

Some alternatives to "minor digression" include "slight tangent", "brief detour", or "small deviation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to include a "minor digression" in formal writing?

While a "minor digression" can add depth or context, ensure it remains brief and relevant to the overall topic. In highly formal writing, consider whether the digression is necessary or if the information can be integrated more directly.

How does a "minor digression" differ from a major one?

A "minor digression" is a short, closely related departure from the main subject, while a major digression is longer and may explore less relevant themes. The key is to keep "minor digression" concise and connected to the primary focus.