Distracted: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone is trying to concentrate but something is pulling their attention away.

• She was distracted by the noise outside during the meeting

Describes someone who is not giving proper attention to something they should be focusing on.

• The teacher noticed that the students were inattentive during the lesson

When someone is so deeply absorbed in thoughts that they are unaware of their surroundings.

• She was too preoccupied with her own problems to notice what was happening around her

Refers to a lack of clarity or purpose in thought or attention.

• He gave an unfocused speech that meandered through several unrelated topics

Describes a person who often forgets things or doesn't pay attention because they are thinking about something else.

• He is very absentminded; he forgot his keys again

When someone loses focus or attention on what they are doing due to a disturbance.

• She was distracted by the loud noise outside
• He gets distracted easily when working

When something or someone changes direction or attention to a different course or activity.

• They decided to divert the river to prevent flooding
• She diverted their attention from the argument by telling a joke

When something diminishes the value or quality of something else.

• The loud music can detract from the restaurant's cozy atmosphere
• Her rude comment detracted from the overall positive experience

When someone stops a person from speaking or continuing what they are doing.

• Please do not interrupt me while I am speaking
• The meeting was interrupted by a phone call

When an activity or process is interrupted or thrown into disorder.

• The storm disrupted the electricity supply in the area
• The student's constant talking disrupted the class