What does Side Quest mean?
A secondary task or distraction from the main goal
Detailed Explanation
In video games, a 'side quest' is an optional mission that is not essential to finishing the main story. In internet slang, the term is used as a metaphor for getting sidetracked or distracted from one's main goal or task in real life. It refers to any unplanned detour or activity that you end up doing on the way to your intended destination.
Usage Examples
“I was supposed to go straight to the grocery store, but I got distracted by a bookstore. It became a side quest.”
“He went to college to be a doctor but ended up joining a band, which was a pretty major side quest.”
“My whole afternoon has just been a series of unfortunate side quests.”
Origin & History
The term is borrowed directly from video game terminology, specifically from role-playing games (RPGs) where side quests are a major feature. Its use as a metaphor for real-life situations became popular on social media in the early 2020s, as it provided a fun, nerdy way to describe a universal experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a side quest a bad thing?
Not necessarily. In games and in life, side quests can sometimes be more fun and rewarding than the main goal. The term is usually used in a humorous, self-deprecating way.