1. A topic or problem that is only slightly related to the main subject being discussed; a peripheral or indirect concern
The debate about the building's color was a tangential issue; we should focus on safety regulations.
O debate sobre a cor do edifício era uma questão tangencial; devemos focar nas normas de segurança.
2. A matter that distracts from the primary purpose or goal of a discussion or project
His concerns about office furniture were tangential issues compared to the company's financial crisis.
Suas preocupações sobre móveis de escritório eram questões tangenciais comparadas à crise financeira da empresa.