Diversion: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used when referring to something that temporarily takes attention away from the main issue or activity. It often implies a deliberate act to divert attention.

• The magician's tricks served as a diversion while the real action happened behind the scenes
• During the meeting, the unexpected question acted as a diversion from the main topic

Used when something takes someone's attention away from what they are supposed to be doing. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting interference or interruption.

• Her phone was a constant distraction during study hours
• The loud noise outside served as a distraction while I was trying to focus on my work

Refers to something that is enjoyable and fun, often light-hearted. It is usually associated with activities meant to entertain or make people laugh.

• The children's amusement was evident as they watched the clown's performance
• His witty remarks provided great amusement during the dinner party

Broadly refers to activities or performances designed to provide pleasure or enjoyment. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.

• Watching movies is a common form of entertainment for many people
• The concert will provide entertainment for thousands of attendees

Used when talking about redirecting someone's attention or focus from one thing to another, often to escape or avoid a situation.

• As a diversion, she decided to ask him about his weekend.
• The magician used the assistant as a diversion to perform the trick.

Describes something that takes someone's attention away from what they should be focusing on. It can have a negative connotation if it prevents concentration.

• His constant humming was a distraction during the exam.
• She needed a distraction from her stressful job, so she started a new hobby.

Typically used in scenarios where something or someone is intentionally used to mislead or attract others away from the real person or object. Often employed in hunting, military, or strategic games.

• The hunters placed a decoy in the field to attract the ducks.
• The police used a car as a decoy to catch the criminals.

Used metaphorically to describe an action or statement that is meant to hide the true intention or activity. It has a somewhat negative connotation as it implies deceit.

• The company's public apology acted as a smokescreen for their ongoing malpractice.
• His cheerful demeanor was just a smokescreen for his underlying sadness.

Same as the first entry, a distraction or something that takes attention away from something else. Often used in both everyday situations and more serious contexts such as military strategies.

• The magic trick served as a diversion while the pickpocket did his job.
• The soldiers created a diversion to sneak past enemy lines.

A longer or less direct route taken to avoid something or to see something more interesting along the way. Commonly used in travel and driving contexts.

• We had to take a detour because the main road was closed.
• The scenic detour added an hour to our trip, but the views were worth it.

Used to describe another way to get to a destination, often because the usual route is blocked or busy. Common in travel and commuting contexts.

• Due to the roadworks, we had to take an alternative route to get to the office.
• The GPS suggested an alternative route to avoid the traffic jam.

A route that goes around a town or other area to avoid congestion or a particular obstruction. Can also refer to a surgical procedure; in both cases, indicates circumventing something.

• They built a bypass around the town to reduce traffic in the city center.
• The patient underwent a heart bypass surgery last week.