digression
/dɪˈɡɹɛʃən/
Group 20Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (noun)
- A temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing GRE
Example in Context
The lecturer's frequent digressions, while entertaining, meant that the core material was often rushed at the end of class.
Synonyms
side tracktangentdetour
Etymology
Stepping apart from the main topic.
- di- (Latin) — apart
- gressio (Latin) — step
Memory Aid
🚶♂️Sounds like “digress shun”
Imagine a man trying to avoid a conversation by DIGRESSING away from it, only to be SHUNNED by everyone!
Visual Association
🗣️A speaker wandering off the stage, completely lost in unrelated thoughts while the audience looks puzzled.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “digression” mean on the GRE?
digression (noun) means “A temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing”. The lecturer's frequent digressions, while entertaining, meant that the core material was often rushed at the end of class.
How to remember “digression” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “digression” sounds like “digress shun”. Imagine a man trying to avoid a conversation by DIGRESSING away from it, only to be SHUNNED by everyone!
What are synonyms for “digression”?
Common synonyms: side track, tangent, detour.