Fly/go off at a tangent

Pro Tip 1/3

Sudden Shift

The phrase is used when someone abruptly changes the topic or plan, without warning.

Mid-conversation, she flew off at a tangent, discussing her vacation plans.

Pro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Topics

When used, it often implies that the new subject is surprisingly different or unrelated.

While discussing taxes, he suddenly went off at a tangent about space travel.

Pro Tip 3/3

Informal Expression

The phrase is casual and best used in informal conversation or creative writing.

In our book club, discussions often fly off at a tangent and become very lively.