Is there a word for a comment which makes no sense or adds nothing to the current discussion?


Consider this conversation:



John: I am giving free chess lessons.
Mary: Nice! You’re a true teacher.
John: How so?
Mary: A true teacher imparts knowledge without a price tag.
John: But what if teaching is his only source of income? Would he not be a “true” teacher then?
Mark (in response to the question above): You clearly mentioned “free chess lesson”.



I don’t see how Mark’s comment adds anything to the discussion or makes sense in the current discussion. It is “redundant” — that’s one word for it — but is there a more fitting word?



Answer



The best I can think of is "non sequitur," which means a conclusion or statement that does not logically follow from the previous argument or statement.


Also, maybe it is a boondoggle (Work or activity that is wasteful or pointless but gives the appearance of having value).


Otherwise, it is picayune (worthless, petty).


I'd go with non sequitur.


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