Deflection: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.