straying from the point

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "straying from the point" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where someone is deviating from the main topic or argument in a conversation or text. Example: "While your story is interesting, I feel like you're straying from the point of our discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

When she brought that up during her filibuster, the lieutenant governor ruled she had strayed from the point.

The New York Times

Try not to stray from the point.

WikiHow

Don't cram so much information inside that you lose your reader, stray from the main point, or make your point hard to understand.

WikiHow

Rubio, according to most observers, played directly into Christie's attack line, that he is rehearsed and incapable of straying from the same set of talking points.

The Guardian

One of the main problems with solar cooling using ejectors is that the ejector cannot operate well if the operating conditions stray from the design point temperatures.

Solar Energy

The few coaches who were brave enough to stray from the talking points about new markets and greater recruiting areas reluctantly pointed out the volatility the conference faces.

The New York Times - Sports

But I am straying from the story.

Huffington Post

Anyhoo, I'm straying from the topic.

Vice

A lion tamer?" Herzog asks, straying slightly from the point.

The New Yorker

It feels as if we're straying away from the point of what people mean by his absence of self-doubt.

The Guardian - Books

There is plenty of auxiliary material, and much of it is very telling, but it never strays from the point.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase when the deviation is temporary and you intend to return to the main topic.

Common error

Avoid using "straying from the point" if the main argument or subject hasn't been clearly established. This can confuse your audience and diminish the effectiveness of your communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "straying from the point" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a deviation or departure from a central topic, argument, or line of reasoning. According to Ludwig AI, it is considered grammatically correct. This phrase indicates that someone is not adhering to the main subject.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "straying from the point" accurately describes deviating from a central topic or argument, and, according to Ludwig AI, its use is grammatically correct. While not extremely common, the expression appears in various contexts including news media, wikis, and science. To avoid confusion, it's best to clarify the main topic before using the expression. Alternatives like "digressing from the subject" or "wandering off-topic" can also be used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Digressing from the subject

Focuses on the act of moving away from the main topic, often temporarily.

Wandering off-topic

Implies a more casual and less structured deviation from the main subject.

Deviating from the matter at hand

Emphasizes the importance or urgency of the current topic.

Getting sidetracked

Suggests being distracted by something unrelated to the main topic.

Losing focus

Highlights a decline in concentration on the key topic.

Going off on a tangent

Describes a sudden and often unexpected shift to a related but distinct topic.

Departing from the core issue

Emphasizes the core of the issue being left behind.

Veering away from the central theme

Suggests a gradual change in direction away from the main topic.

Getting off track

Suggests losing direction within a discussion or plan.

Not sticking to the agenda

Implies failure to adhere to a predetermined list of topics for discussion.

FAQs

What does it mean to "stray from the point"?

To "stray from the point" means to deviate from the central topic or argument in a conversation, discussion, or piece of writing. It implies moving away from what's most relevant or important.

How can I avoid "straying from the point" in my writing?

To avoid "straying from the point", create a clear outline before you begin writing, stick to your main topic, and eliminate any unnecessary or irrelevant details. Regularly review your work to ensure it remains focused.

What are some alternative phrases for "straying from the point"?

You can use alternatives like "digressing from the subject", "wandering off-topic", or "deviating from the matter at hand" depending on the context.

Is it always bad to "stray from the point"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, a brief digression can provide helpful context or add interest. However, it's important to ensure that any deviations are brief and relevant, and that you ultimately return to the main topic.