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Sidetracking: meaning, definitions and examples

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sidetracking

 

[ ˈsaɪdtrækɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

distraction, deviation

Sidetracking refers to the act of diverting attention or focus away from the main topic or goal. It often occurs in discussions or plans where the conversation drifts into unrelated areas. This can lead to delays in decision-making or taking action. Sidetracking can be intentional or unintentional, and often results in a loss of productivity if not managed properly.

Synonyms

deflecting, distracting, diverting, veering off.

Examples of usage

  • During the meeting, we ended up sidetracking to discuss unrelated projects.
  • She was sidetracked by her friend's story and forgot the main point.
  • Let's avoid sidetracking and stick to the agenda.
  • His comments sidetracked the discussion about budget cuts.

Translations

Translations of the word "sidetracking" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desvio

🇮🇳 पथभ्रष्ट करना

🇩🇪 Abweichung

🇮🇩 penyimpangan

🇺🇦 відхилення

🇵🇱 zbaczanie

🇯🇵 逸脱

🇫🇷 détournement

🇪🇸 desviación

🇹🇷 sapma

🇰🇷 탈선

🇸🇦 انحراف

🇨🇿 odchylka

🇸🇰 odchýlenie

🇨🇳 偏离

🇸🇮 odstopanje

🇮🇸 frávik

🇰🇿 бұрылыс

🇬🇪 გახრა

🇦🇿 yoldan çıxma

🇲🇽 desviación

Etymology

The term 'sidetracking' comes from the combination of 'side' and 'track.' The word 'side' originates from Old English 'sīde,' meaning 'the surface or part that is not the front or back.' It refers to something that is not the main focus but rather an additional element. The word 'track' is derived from the Middle English 'trac,' which referred to a line or path. Originally associated with railroads, 'sidetracking' referred to taking a train off the main track onto a less important side track. Over time, this term evolved into a metaphor for any situation where attention is diverted from a primary focus, frequently employed in business, discussions, or personal goals. The development of the term reflects societal challenges in maintaining focus amidst numerous distractions in modern life.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,949, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.