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Diversionary: meaning, definitions and examples

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diversionary

 

[ daɪˈvɜːr.ʒən.əri ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

strategy term

The term 'diversionary' refers to something that serves to divert attention or distract from the main issue or objective. It is often used in the context of tactics or strategies in various fields such as military, politics, and psychology. A diversionary tactic may be employed to mislead an opponent or to create a misleading impression. The effectiveness of such strategies lies in their ability to redirect focus while the primary actions are carried out elsewhere.

Synonyms

distracting, diverting, misleading

Examples of usage

  • The politician used a diversionary tactic to shift attention from the controversy.
  • The army launched a diversionary attack to confuse the enemy forces.
  • Her comments were seen as diversionary, meant to distract from the real problem.

Translations

Translations of the word "diversionary" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desviador

🇮🇳 डाइवर्जनरी

🇩🇪 ablenkend

🇮🇩 diversifikan

🇺🇦 відволікаючий

🇵🇱 odwracający uwagę

🇯🇵 逸脱的な

🇫🇷 diversionnaire

🇪🇸 desviador

🇹🇷 dikkati dağıtıcı

🇰🇷 전환적인

🇸🇦 تحويلي

🇨🇿 odvádějící pozornost

🇸🇰 odvádzajúci pozornosť

🇨🇳 转移注意力的

🇸🇮 odvračalni

🇮🇸 frádrægandi

🇰🇿 бұрушы

🇬🇪 გადაადგილება

🇦🇿 yayındırıcı

🇲🇽 desviador

Etymology

The word 'diversionary' derives from the Latin word 'divertere', which means 'to turn aside'. This root is composed of 'di-' meaning 'apart' and 'vertere', meaning 'to turn'. The term began usage in the English language in the mid-20th century, particularly within military and strategic contexts, referring to actions intended to redirect the attention or efforts of an adversary. Over time, it has also found application in political discourse and everyday vocabulary, often highlighting actions that serve to distract from pressing issues. The concept remains relevant in discussions of media, politics, psychology, and conflict, emphasizing the role of distraction in various human endeavors.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,832, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.