Introduction / Context:
Borrowed from geometry, “go off at a tangent” describes a line that departs from a curve and never returns—figuratively, a speaker who suddenly departs from the main topic. In meetings and presentations, this behavior feels like abrupt subject-switching rather than mere verbosity or memory lapses.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Idiom: “go off at a tangent.”
- Domain: public speaking or lectures.
- We must capture sudden topic departure.
Concept / Approach:
The essence is topic-shift, not forgetting, not length, and not loudness. Therefore, “change the subject immediately” is the most accurate paraphrase. The other choices reflect different speaking problems and do not align with the tangent metaphor’s directional break from the main line of thought.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify geometric metaphor → abrupt departure.2) Match to discourse: sudden switch to an unrelated topic.3) Select “change the subject immediately.”4) Reject alternatives about memory, length, boisterousness, or inconsistency.
Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “He often digresses abruptly.” This equals changing subject suddenly.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
forget things / go on at length / become boisterous / contradict himself: Different traits; not the tangent idea.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “digress” (topic shift) with “ramble” (long-winded). Tangent emphasizes direction change, not just duration.
Final Answer:
change the subject immediately
Discussion & Comments