Definition

Relating to a style of writing or speaking that covers many different topics in a way that may seem disorganized or rambling.

Example

The professor's discursive lecture wandered through various subjects, making it hard to follow his main point.

Conversation

I was reading that essay on philosophy, and it was quite discursive in its approach.

Really? I find those types of essays a bit hard to follow sometimes.

Yeah, it jumped from topic to topic without much structure.

Exactly! I prefer something more straightforward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Discursive → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "currere" (meaning to run). The word describes a manner of speaking or writing that moves from one topic to another, running apart from a single focus.

Memory Tip

Think of ideas 'running apart' ('currere') from a central theme ('dis-') — that's why discursive means covering many topics.

Visually Confused Words