Deflection: meaning, definitions and examples

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deflection

[dɪˈflɛkʃən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in physics

The action of deflecting or the state of being deflected; a change of course or position caused by bending or curving.

Synonyms

bending, deviation, diversion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deflection	Used similarly to the first 'deflection', referring to a change in direction or alignment due to some influence. The player tried to shoot, but the ball took a deflection off the defender The needle on the compass experienced a deflection due to the nearby magnet
bending	This word is best for describing the physical movement where an object curves or changes shape due to pressure or tension. The strong wind resulted in the bending of the trees Bending the metal rod required significant effort
deviation	This term is appropriate when referring to a departure from a standard or norm, often implying an undesired or unexpected change. There was a deviation from the planned route due to road construction The pilot corrected the plane's deviation from its flight path
diversion	Use this word when talking about redirecting attention or something away from its usual path, often for a temporary period. The road closure caused a diversion of traffic through the neighborhood The magician created a diversion to execute his trick

Examples of usage

The deflection of light by a prism.
The deflection of a missile by a radar system.
The deflection of the river's flow by a dam.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in sports

A shot or pass that deviates from a straight path.

Synonyms

bend, deviation, diversion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deflection	Used in technical or scientific contexts, especially in physics or engineering, to describe the change in direction or the bending of an object under a force. The deflection of the beam was measured to ensure the structure's stability The magnetic field caused a noticeable deflection of the compass needle
diversion	Used when something is redirected or given a different purpose, also used to describe activities that provide entertainment or distraction. The road was closed, so we had to take a diversion Reading is a pleasant diversion from her daily stresses
deviation	Refers to moving away from an established course or standard, often used in discussions about statistics, behavior, or plans. There was a significant deviation in the temperatures recorded this month The ship's deviation from the planned route caused delays
bend	Commonly used for physical objects when they change shape due to applying force. Also, 'bend' refers to curving roads or paths. He managed to bend the metal bar with all his strength The road bends sharply to the left after the bridge

Examples of usage

The soccer player made a deflection with his head.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in psychology

A psychological defense mechanism in which unpleasant feelings are transferred to another person.

Synonyms

displacement, projection, transference.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deflection	Often refers to avoiding addressing an issue directly, usually in discussions or arguments. His answer was a deflection to avoid the real question. She used deflection tactics to keep the focus away from her mistakes.
projection	Frequently used in psychology to describe the act of attributing one's own feelings or thoughts to someone else, or in describing estimates in data analysis. His projection of his anger onto his friend ruined their relationship. The company's projection shows an increase in sales next quarter.
displacement	More technical in usage, usually used in contexts like physics, engineering, or describing populations moving from one place to another. The displacement of the water caused the container to overflow. The war led to the displacement of thousands of families.
transference	Primarily used in psychological and therapeutic contexts to describe the redirection of feelings and desires, especially those unconsciously retained from childhood, toward a new object. During therapy, we explored her feelings of transference toward her therapist. Transference can significantly affect the therapeutic relationship.

Examples of usage

She used deflection to avoid dealing with her own emotions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'deflection' originates from the Latin word 'deflectere', which means 'to bend away'.
The transition from Latin to English took place in the late 15th century, illustrating the evolving understanding of bending and redirecting.
It has been used in various fields, including physics and medicine, to describe the change in direction of forces or waves.

Physics

In physics, deflection occurs when a force applied to an object causes it to move away from its original path.
The concept is critical in understanding how light behaves when it passes through lenses, causing it to change direction.
Deflection is also essential in structural engineering, where it refers to the bending of beams under load, affecting stability.

Sports

In sports like soccer or basketball, a deflection can change the momentum of the game, often leading to unexpected plays.
Players often train to anticipate and react to deflections, enhancing their strategy and performance.
The term 'deflection' is commonly used in discussions of goalkeeping, where a player's ability to redirect the ball can lead to crucial saves.

Psychology

In psychology, the concept of deflection can describe how individuals might avoid direct confrontation or responsibilities by deflecting attention.
This behavior can manifest in conversation, where someone changes the topic when faced with uncomfortable questions.
Understanding deflection can improve communication skills and help in conflict resolution.

Literature

Many authors use the metaphor of deflection in narratives, representing characters who encounter obstacles that change their paths.
The theme of deflection can symbolize the unpredictability of life, conveying how plans can be altered by unforeseen events.
This concept can be found in various literary genres, reflecting characters' emotional or physical journeys.

Translations

Translations of the word "deflection" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desvio

🇮🇳 विचलन

🇩🇪 Ablenkung

🇮🇩 pembelokan

🇺🇦 відхилення

🇵🇱 odchylenie

🇯🇵 屈曲

🇫🇷 déviation

🇪🇸 desviación

🇹🇷 sapma

🇰🇷 편향

🇸🇦 انحراف

🇨🇿 odchylka

🇸🇰 odchýlka

🇨🇳 偏转

🇸🇮 odklon

🇮🇸 frávik

🇰🇿 ауытқу

🇬🇪 გადახრა

🇦🇿 sapma

🇲🇽 desviación

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,248 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8245 divorced
8246 vibrations
8247 remedial
8248 deflection
8249 politician
8250 analysts
8251 modernization
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