Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing a digression involves specific set phrases, conjunctions, and strategies to signal a temporary shift in topic. The most common approach is using 'それはさておき' or '話は変わりますが' to explicitly set aside the current topic and introduce a new one. Other options include '余談ですが' for a side note, or simply using 'ところで' for a lighter topic change. The choice depends on formality and the relationship between the topics.
The speaker wants to temporarily leave the main subject and bring up something else, often returning later.
A common phrase meaning 'leaving that aside' or 'that aside'. Used to pause the current topic and introduce a new one. Suitable for both spoken and written contexts, neutral to slightly formal.
That aside, let's get to the main topic.
Anyway, how have you been lately?
Literally 'the topic changes, but...'. A polite and clear way to signal a shift in conversation. Common in both formal and casual settings.
Changing the subject, are you free next week?
A conjunction meaning 'by the way'. Used to introduce a new topic that may be unrelated. Less formal than 'それはさておき', but very common in conversation.
By the way, how was the movie yesterday?
Literally 'the conversation digresses, but...'. A direct way to acknowledge a digression. Slightly formal, often used in presentations or writing.
I digress, but I'll add a note on this point.
The speaker wants to insert a comment that is not part of the main flow but related.
Means 'as a side note' or 'digression'. Used to introduce an anecdote or extra information. Common in speeches and writing.
As a side note, this town used to be a castle town.
Means 'incidentally' or 'by the way'. Used to add related information. Less formal than '余談ですが', common in conversation.
The speaker wants to go back to the original subject after a detour.
Literally 'returning to the topic, but...'. Used to resume the main thread. Suitable for formal and informal contexts.
Getting back on track, what do you think about the earlier proposal?
Means 'returning to the main subject'. More formal, often used in meetings or presentations.
The speaker realizes they have gone off topic and wants to explicitly note it.
Literally 'the conversation derailed, but...'. A self-deprecating way to acknowledge a digression. Common in casual to semi-formal speech.
I've gone off on a tangent, but let me get back on track.
Means 'I've strayed off the path, but...'. Similar to '話が脱線しましたが', slightly more literary.
'それはさておき' explicitly sets aside the previous topic, implying a clear break. 'ところで' is a lighter transition, often used to bring up a new but not necessarily contrasting topic. Use 'それはさておき' when you want to emphasize moving on from something.
Anyway, would you like something to drink?
By the way, how's the weather tomorrow?
The English word 'digression' as a noun (e.g., 'That was a digression') is not commonly used in Japanese conversation. Instead, use phrases like '話がそれました' (the conversation digressed) or '余談でした' (it was a side note).
Sorry, I digressed.
After a brief digression, she returned to the main point.
His speech was full of digressions.
ちなみに、彼は私のいとこです。
Incidentally, he's my cousin.
Returning to the main topic, let's discuss the budget.
I've digressed, but let's continue.