Definition

The quality of straying from the main topic or subject in speech or writing.

Example

His digressiveness made the lecture longer than necessary, as he often wandered off-topic.

Conversation

Have you noticed how sometimes our conversations seem to go off on a tangent?

Totally! I think it’s just part of our natural digressiveness.

Yeah, but it does make it hard to stay on topic sometimes.

True, but I enjoy our little side stories!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Digressiveness → It is formed from "digress" (from Latin "digressus", meaning to step aside) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "digressiveness" refers to the quality of stepping aside from the main topic or subject.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who "steps aside" from the main point — that's what digressiveness means, the quality of straying from the main topic.

Visually Confused Words