Distraction: meaning, definitions and examples

When someone or something draws your attention away from what you are doing or should be focusing on.

• The noise outside was a constant distraction from my studies.
• Her phone was a major distraction during the meeting.

When you intentionally cause someone's attention to move away from what they are doing, often for a deliberate purpose. Can be positive or neutral.

• To find a solution, she suggested a diversion to take everyone's mind off the problem.
• The magician used a diversion to perform his trick.

When there is a pause or break in an activity or process, often caused by an external source. It can sometimes be considered impolite or unplanned.

• The team's work was delayed due to constant interruptions from phone calls.
• Sorry for the interruption, but I need your help with something urgent.

When there is an interruption or disruption that causes confusion or disorder. This often has a negative connotation.

• The loud party next door was a disturbance to the entire neighbourhood.
• There was a disturbance in the office that disrupted everyone's work.

Used when referring to something that diverts attention away from what one is doing. Commonly appears in personal and professional scenarios.

• The noise from the construction site was a constant distraction during the meeting

Applies to interruptions that cause a process to stop or be delayed. Often used in organizational, technological, or social contexts.

• The power outage led to a major disruption in our production schedule

Used to describe something that blocks or impedes passage or progress. Often has a slightly stronger or formal tone.

• A fallen tree caused an obstruction on the main road

Refers to something that slows progress or makes a task more difficult. Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• The heavy traffic was a significant hindrance to getting to the airport on time

A situation where someone is unable to focus due to something diverting their attention.

• Her phone was a constant distraction during the meeting.
• The noise outside served as a distraction while he was trying to study.

A state of being bewildered or unclear in one's mind about something.

• The complex instructions caused a lot of confusion.
• She looked around in confusion trying to understand what was happening.

A state where someone is so absorbed in their thoughts that they are unaware of their surroundings.

• Her preoccupation with work made her miss her friend’s birthday.
• He walked down the street, lost in preoccupation, not noticing the traffic.

A mental state where one feels disconnected from their thoughts, feelings, or sense of identity, often related to trauma or psychological conditions. This term can carry a negative connotation.

• He experienced dissociation after the traumatic event.
• The patient reported feelings of dissociation during therapy.