Sidetrack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Psychology

• Getting sidetracked can be a form of distraction which might lead to decreased productivity.
• This phenomenon is often linked to executive function, the mental skills that help you focus and manage tasks.
• Over time, frequent sidetracking can contribute to stress and a sense of being overwhelmed.

Pop Culture

• In movies and literature, characters often get sidetracked on adventures that lead to unexpected discoveries.
• Reality TV shows frequently feature contestants getting sidetracked, creating drama and suspense in storylines.
• The concept has been humorously depicted in cartoons where characters divert from their goal for comedic effect.

Education

• Educators encourage students to avoid sidetracking during studies by creating structured learning environments.
• Time management strategies often focus on minimizing sidetracks to improve academic performance.
• Group projects sometimes experience sidetracking when discussions veer off topic, prompting a need for guidance.

Technology

• In coding, a programmer might get sidetracked by bugs or features not initially intended in the project.
• Social media platforms often lead users to sidetrack from their tasks as notifications and distractions pop up.
• Productivity apps provide tools to help users stay on track, minimizing the potential for sidetracking.

Main points about word origin

• The term 'sidetrack' originally referred to a secondary rail track alongside a main line.
• The prefix 'side-' means next to or away from the main thing, while 'track' refers to a path or course.
• This word has been used in English since the 19th century, particularly in relation to trains.

The word 'sidetrack' originated in the 19th century, combining 'side' and 'track'. It was initially used in the context of railroads to refer to a secondary track branching off from the main track. Over time, the word evolved to also have a metaphorical meaning, referring to being diverted or distracted from the main focus or activity.

See also: backtrack, detractor, sidetracked, track, trackable, trackball, tracker, tracking, tracklist, tracks, trackway.

This word's position of #31,965 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 31965 sidetrack
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