tangential
Adjective
Hard difficulty
What does “tangential” mean?
adjective.diverging from a previous course or line; erratic.
SAT Usage
the term is often used in passages discussing topics like philosophy, science, or literature, where ideas or arguments may deviate from the main point. It emphasizes a lack of direct relevance or connection, distinguishing it from words like "peripheral," which suggests a lesser importance rather than a complete divergence.
Common Confusions
Tangential implies a complete divergence from the main topic, while peripheral usually suggests a lesser importance or a secondary role without full detachment from the central idea.
Do not choose tangential if the context emphasizes a direct or focused approach rather than diverging from a previous course or line; erratic.
Example Sentences
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Her comment was tangential and did not address the main question.