What does the word 'tangential' suggest about a relationship or connection?

The word 'tangential' suggests a relationship or connection that is not central to the main topic or subject at hand; it indicates something that is only superficially connected or off the main point. This meaning aligns with the choice indicative of something being irrelevant. When something is described as tangential, it implies that it touches upon the subject but does not have a significant or meaningful connection—much like how a tangent in mathematics touches a curve at just one point without crossing it. This illustrates that while there might be a connection, it is not a critical or major one.

In contrast, the other options indicate levels of connection that are opposite to the idea of tangential. Direct suggests a strong, clear connection; essential denotes something that is necessary and crucial; and strong implies a significant bond. Therefore, these choices do not align with the meaning of 'tangential' in the context of relationships or connections.