In this vocabulary question, select the synonym of the word "digression", which refers to a temporary departure from the main subject in speech or writing.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of English synonyms. The word "digression" is often used in discussions of speeches, lectures, or written texts to describe a shift away from the main topic. You must pick the option that is closest in meaning to this idea. Vocabulary questions like this are important in exams because they check not only word meanings but also your familiarity with academic and literary language.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The target word is "digression".
• The options are "Meandering", "Candid", "Categorical", "Unequivocal", and "Concise".
• You need to choose the word that best matches a departure from the main subject.

Concept / Approach:
"Digression" refers to a temporary shift away from the main line of argument or narrative. It suggests wandering off the main path. The word "meandering" captures this idea of wandering or going off in a winding, indirect route, both literally and figuratively. The other options refer to honesty, clarity, or firmness of statement and do not refer to leaving the main topic. Therefore, "meandering" is the closest synonym in this context.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Fix the meaning of "digression" as a side track away from the main subject. Step 2: Consider "meandering". This word originally describes a river or path that winds and curves, and by extension describes speech or writing that wanders from the point. Step 3: Consider "candid". It means open and honest, especially about something difficult, which does not relate to leaving the topic. Step 4: Consider "categorical". It means explicit and direct, the opposite of wandering. Step 5: Consider "unequivocal". This also means clear and leaving no doubt, again unrelated to digression. Step 6: Consider "concise". It means brief and to the point, almost the opposite of digressive or meandering. Step 7: Only "meandering" expresses the idea of wandering away from a straight line or main topic.

Verification / Alternative check:
Imagine a lecturer who starts to tell a long personal story unrelated to the main topic. You could say, "This is an interesting digression" or "The lecture started to meander". Both words describe a departure from the main subject. You would not describe such a story as categorical, unequivocal, or concise. This comparison shows that "meandering" fits the sense of digression best.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"Candid" relates to honesty and openness, not topic changes. "Categorical" and "unequivocal" describe the degree of certainty or clarity of a statement, not whether it stays on topic. "Concise" describes being brief and focused, almost the opposite of digression. Therefore, none of these options give the sense of wandering off the main subject that "digression" carries.

Common Pitfalls:
Students may focus on whether a word sounds academic or formal instead of matching the meaning exactly. Another common error is confusing the positive connotations of clarity or honesty with the neutral or slightly negative idea of digression. The safest strategy is to link "digression" with "side track" and then find the option that best reflects that sense of wandering away.

Final Answer:
The synonym of "digression" is Meandering.