EXCURSIVENESS Meaning and
Definition
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Excursiveness is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being extensive or wide-ranging in content, discourse, or thought. It is characterized by the tendency to move away from or deviate from the main subject or topic at hand. Excursiveness can manifest as a digression or tangent that takes one's focus away from the primary point or purpose.
In conversations or discussions, an excursive individual often ventures into unrelated topics or explores various ideas, often leading to a lengthy or meandering discourse. This can sometimes make it difficult for others to grasp the central argument or follow a logical progression of thought.
Excursiveness can also appear in written works such as essays, articles, or books. Authors or writers with an excursive style tend to include extensive details, background information, or tangential anecdotes that may enrich the subject matter but may also create distractions or disrupt the flow of the main narrative.
While excursiveness can sometimes impede clarity or hinder effective communication, it can also be seen as a characteristic of creative thinking, as it allows for the exploration of new, unexpected connections or perspectives. However, in certain contexts, such as academic writing or goal-oriented discussions, excursiveness may be seen as a negative trait that diminishes focus or coherence.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EXCURSIVENESS
Etymology of EXCURSIVENESS
The word "excursiveness" is derived from the noun "excursion", which comes from the Latin word "excursus", the past participle of "excurrere". "Excurrere" is a compound of the prefix "ex-" (meaning "out") and the verb "currere" (meaning "to run"). Thus, "excursiveness" can be seen as the quality or state of being inclined to "run out" or digress from the main topic or focus.
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