Digressive

hardNegative tone

dy-GRES-iv

adjective

Definition

Departing from the main subject; rambling

Memory hook

DI-GRESSIVE: going off on tangents — wandering away from the main topic.

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Word roots

digressusgone away from(Latin)

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Examples

His digressive lecture style frustrated students seeking clear explanations.
The digressive narrative made the novel difficult to follow.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

His ______ lecture style frustrated students seeking clear explanations.
Show answer

digressive

Categories

View all Communication words

GRE Tip

Digressive is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "tangential" or "discursive" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "focused".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

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