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Detouring: meaning, definitions and examples

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detouring

 

[ˈdiː.tʊər.ɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

driving

To take a longer route in order to avoid traffic or obstacles.

Synonyms

bypass, deviate, dodge.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detouring

Used when you need to change your route to avoid an obstacle or for sightseeing, typically in a travel or navigation scenario.

  • We took a detouring route to see the beautiful countryside.
  • The main road is closed, so we are detouring through the nearby town.
deviate

Applied when changing or diverging from a set plan, path, or action, often used in formal or academic contexts.

  • We had to deviate from our original plan due to unexpected delays.
  • If you deviate from the instructions, the experiment may not work.
dodge

Used to describe a quick, evasive movement to avoid something, often used informally and can have a negative connotation suggesting avoidance.

  • He tried to dodge the question during the interview.
  • I had to dodge the oncoming bicycles in the crowded park.
bypass

Used primarily when avoiding something like traffic congestion, a city center, or a problem, often in a planned and structured way.

  • We took the bypass to avoid the city traffic.
  • Is there a way to bypass this issue in the software?

Examples of usage

  • We had to detour around the accident on the highway.
  • The road was closed so we had to detour through the side streets.
Context #2 | Noun

travel

A deviation from the usual or direct route.

Synonyms

alternate route, diversion, shortcut.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
detouring

When the planned route is temporarily blocked or unavailable, and you need to take a different path to reach your destination.

  • Due to the road construction, we were detouring through the city streets
  • The police directed traffic by detouring vehicles around the accident site
diversion

When traffic or travelers are officially redirected to another route due to roadworks, accidents, or other planned events. Sometimes has a more formal or enforced implication.

  • Due to maintenance work, there was a diversion via the next town
  • Temporary traffic diversions are in place because of the marathon
alternate route

When you need a different way to get to your destination, often planned in advance or suggested due to traffic, road closure, or other obstacles.

  • There’s a lot of traffic on the main highway; let's take an alternate route
  • GPS suggested an alternate route to avoid the congestion
shortcut

When taking a faster route or a path that reduces the distance traveled, typically less formal or known to locals.

  • I know a shortcut through the back alleys that will save us 10 minutes
  • She often takes a shortcut through the park to get home quicker

Examples of usage

  • The detour added an extra hour to our journey.
  • We followed the detour signs to avoid road construction.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'detour' originated in the 19th century, combining 'de-' (from) and 'tour' (a journey or a round).
  • Initially, 'detour' referred to a different route taken during a journey, particularly in road navigation.
  • It has French roots with 'détourner', meaning to turn aside or divert the course.

Road Safety

  • Detours are often implemented during construction work to keep roads safe and manageable.
  • Signs indicating detours play a crucial role in preventing accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow.
  • Emergency services frequently rely on detours when responding to incidents, ensuring they can reach people in need quickly.

Psychology

  • The concept of detouring can be metaphorically applied to problem-solving, encouraging out-of-the-box thinking.
  • Detouring in life suggests flexibility and adaptability, promoting resilience against unexpected changes.
  • Psychologically, taking a detour may reduce stress by introducing novelty and exploration into our routines.

Adventure and Travel

  • Travelers often appreciate detours, particularly when they lead to unexpected attractions or scenic views.
  • Detours in exploration can enhance experiences, making memories more vivid and enriching.
  • In hiking, taking a detour can lead to hidden waterfalls or stunning overlooks, making the journey worthwhile.

Technology

  • Detouring can also refer to rerouting internet data; networks use detours for efficiency and to avoid congestion.
  • In navigation apps, algorithms suggest detours to avoid traffic jams, helping users reach their destinations faster.
  • Self-driving cars utilize complex detouring systems to react dynamically to obstacles and traffic conditions.

Translations

Translations of the word "detouring" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desvio

🇮🇳 मार्ग बदलना

🇩🇪 Umleitung

🇮🇩 pengalihan

🇺🇦 об'їзд

🇵🇱 objazd

🇯🇵 迂回 (うかい)

🇫🇷 détournement

🇪🇸 desvío

🇹🇷 sapma

🇰🇷 우회

🇸🇦 تحويلة

🇨🇿 objížďka

🇸🇰 obchádzka

🇨🇳 绕行 (rào xíng)

🇸🇮 obvoz

🇮🇸 framhjá

🇰🇿 айналып өту

🇬🇪 შემოვლა

🇦🇿 dolama

🇲🇽 desvío

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,178, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.