veers off topic

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "veers off topic" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a conversation, writing, or presentation that strays from the main subject or theme. Example: "During the meeting, the discussion veered off topic when someone started talking about their vacation plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

As a result, you eliminate some of the meeting "fluff," including all the unnecessary chatter that veers off topic.

The New York Times

When they tire of one another or the conversation veers off topic, they can request a new partner.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

After about 10 minutes we end up veering off topic and just gossiping, chatting about how our weeks are going and what's happening in the news.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And in Southampton, the prime minister submitted to sharp questioning at a live radio show, impressing the audience with his detailed, unscripted answers, even if the answers sometimes veered off topic.

The New York Times

Stark spoke to Friends star Jennifer Aniston about her new film using his distinctive interview style, where he completely veered off topic, discussed his local football team Watford, and eventually became the one answering the questions rather than asking them.

Independent

DISCUSSING the European constitution at a recent informal meeting, a high-ranking German politician suddenly veered off topic and onto the merits (and drawbacks) of "three-speed Europe", the idea that the European Union might adopt different categories of membership, with gradations of responsibility.

The Economist

Stuart's description of the discoveries about King Yuknoom Yich'aak K'ahk' drew 37 responses, including several provocative insights, but eventually the postings gave way to ceaseless arguments about Doomsday, prompting Stuart to shut them down after a week for "veering off topic" by focusing on "galaxies, astrologies, egos, etc".

The Guardian

He also loves to and just seems to get almost visceral enjoyment  in veering off topic and brainstorming about things like: do we live in a simulation.

TechCrunch

Members can veer off topic, and a few are pugnacious.

Los Angeles Times

Then the conversation veered off topic a bit.

Huffington Post

"But it's about respecting the law, and people have veered off topic.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "veers off topic" to describe situations where a discussion, presentation, or piece of writing deviates from its primary focus, introducing unrelated or tangential information. This phrase is particularly effective in capturing unintended or sudden shifts in subject matter.

Common error

Avoid using "veers off topic" when describing literal changes in direction or physical movement; reserve it for deviations in conversation, writing, or thought. For physical deviations, use "veers off course" or similar terms.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "veers off topic" functions as a verb phrase indicating a deviation or departure from the main subject or focus of a discussion, conversation, or written work. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "veers off topic" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a situation where a conversation or discussion deviates from its primary subject. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, the expression signals a shift in focus, often unintended. When writing, ensure you're using it to describe abstract, topical diversions rather than literal changes in direction. Alternatives such as "strays from the subject" or "goes on a tangent" can offer nuanced shades of meaning. The phrase is suitable for neutral or slightly informal settings. Overall, "veers off topic" is a useful and readily understandable expression for highlighting a drift from the intended subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strays from the subject

Emphasizes a departure from the main topic, focusing on the act of wandering away.

deviates from the main point

Highlights a departure from the core argument or purpose.

wanders from the topic

Implies a less directed or intentional deviation from the central subject.

digresses from the subject

Suggests a more formal and structured departure from the main topic.

gets sidetracked

Describes a situation where the focus is unintentionally diverted.

goes on a tangent

Indicates a sudden and often unexpected shift in topic.

loses focus

Implies a gradual decline in concentration on the main subject.

strays off course

Highlights the act of departing from the intended path or direction, analogous to a navigational deviation.

departs from the agenda

Refers to not sticking to the schedule.

diverts from the subject

Implies a more deliberate redirection of the discussion.

FAQs

How can I use "veers off topic" in a sentence?

You can use "veers off topic" to describe a conversation or discussion that strays from its main subject. For example, "During the meeting, the discussion "veered off topic" when someone started talking about their weekend plans."

What's a good alternative to "veers off topic"?

Alternatives include "strays from the subject", "deviates from the main point", or "goes on a tangent" depending on the context.

Is "veers off topic" formal or informal?

"Veers off topic" is suitable for both neutral and slightly informal contexts. It is commonly used in news articles and everyday conversations to describe a shift in focus.

What's the difference between "veers off topic" and "goes off on a tangent"?

"Veers off topic" generally describes a less abrupt and potentially unintentional deviation, while "goes on a tangent" often implies a more sudden, and possibly unrelated, shift in the subject.