Meaning & use
tangentially
In a way that is only slightly or indirectly related to the main subject.
See it in a sentence
The report mentions the budget cuts only tangentially, focusing mainly on staffing.
Her research is tangentially connected to climate science but centers on economics.
A note on using this word
"Tangentially related" is a common academic phrase signaling a connection exists but is not central to the main point.
Words with a similar meaning
indirectlyperipherally
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
directlycentrally
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “tangentially”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.