Fly/go off at a tangent

usgb
phrase

To suddenly change subject or course of action.

He was talking about his work and then suddenly flew off at a tangent about his dog.
Visual representation of "fly/go off at a tangent" - To suddenly change subject or course of action.

Often appears as...

  • suddenly fly off at a tangent
  • always go off at a tangent

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "fly/go off at a tangent"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Sudden Shift

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

Illustration for Sudden Shift
Mid-conversation, she flew off at a tangent, discussing her vacation plans.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Unexpected Topics

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

Illustration for Unexpected Topics
While discussing taxes, he suddenly went off at a tangent about space travel.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Informal Expression

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

Illustration for Informal Expression
In our book club, discussions often fly off at a tangent and become very lively.
Visual representation of the word "Fly/go off at a tangent"

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