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Derail Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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derail

[dษชหˆreษชl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

train accident

To cause a train to leave its tracks accidentally, typically resulting in damage or destruction.

Synonyms

derailment, off the rails, off track.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
derail

This word is often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to describe something that has been thrown off its intended course. It can refer to a train going off the tracks or a project that has encountered unexpected problems.

  • The accident caused the train to derail, injuring several passengers.
  • The sudden change in priorities might derail our plans for the quarter.
derailment

Primarily used to describe the event or instance when a train goes off its tracks. It can also be applied metaphorically to describe a significant disruption.

  • The derailment caused delays in the train service for hours.
  • The meeting's derailment was caused by unanticipated questions from the board.
off the rails

This phrase is more informal and is often used in a critical or negative manner to describe behavior or situations that have become wild, uncontrollable, or chaotic.

  • After losing his job, he went off the rails.
  • Their plans for the event went off the rails when the main speaker canceled.
off track

Suitable for a more neutral to mildly negative situation where someone or something has deviated from its intended path. It is less dramatic than 'off the rails' and often suggests the possibility of getting back on track.

  • Our discussion went off track when we started talking about unrelated issues.
  • The project is off track due to unexpected delays, but we can still meet the deadline if we act quickly.

Examples of usage

  • The heavy rain and flooding caused the train to derail.
  • The investigation revealed that the derailment was caused by a faulty track.
  • The derailment of the train led to delays for commuters.
  • The authorities worked quickly to clear the tracks after the derailment.
  • After the derailment, passengers were safely evacuated from the train.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'derail'

The word 'derail' originated from French 'dรฉrailleur', which means 'to go off the rails'. The term was first used in the context of trains in the mid-19th century. Accidental derailments have been a common occurrence in the history of rail transportation, often due to factors such as faulty tracks, extreme weather conditions, or human error.

See also: rail, railing, raillery, railroad, rails, railway.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,248, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.