The Latin verb discurrere meant "to run about", and from this word we get our word discursive, which often means rambling about over a wide range of topics. A discursive writing style generally isn't …

DISCURSIVE definition: 1. involving discussion: 2. talking about or dealing with subjects that are only slightly…. Learn more.

DISCURSIVE definition: passing aimlessly from one subject to another; digressive; rambling. See examples of discursive used in a sentence.

If a style of writing is discursive, it includes a lot of facts or opinions that are not necessarily relevant.

Define discursive. discursive synonyms, discursive pronunciation, discursive translation, English dictionary definition of discursive. adj. 1. Covering a wide field of subjects; rambling.

Apr 4, 2026 · Discursive describes speech or writing that wanders from the main topic, often exploring multiple ideas without a clear structure. This adjective, originating from Latin for "running to and fro," …

Dec 11, 2025 · discursive (comparative more discursive, superlative most discursive) Of or concerning discourse.

The adjective discursive is often used to describe speech or writing that tends to stray from the main point, but the word can also have almost the opposite meaning.

Definition of discursive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the word discursive, one of which is labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.