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tangential

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The definition of tangential is something only partially related to a main point, or something that verges slightly off-course.

(adjective)

An example of tangential is when you are talking about global warming and you veer off into a discussion of other environmental subjects that aren't directly related to global warming.

See tangential in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

of, like, or in the direction of a tangent
drawn as a tangent
going off at a tangent; diverging or digressing
merely touching a subject, not dealing with it at length

Related Forms:

tangentially adverb

See tangential in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective

Of, relating to, or moving along or in the direction of a tangent.
Merely touching or slightly connected.
Only superficially relevant; divergent: a tangential remark.

Related Forms:

tan·genˌti·alˈi·ty (-shē-ălˈĭ-tē) noun

tan·genˈtial·ly adverb

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