C1verb 2K

Distort

🇬🇧 UK /["/dɪˈstɔːt/","/dɪˈstɔːts/","/dɪˈstɔːtɪd/","/dɪˈstɔːtɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/dɪˈstɔːrt/","/dɪˈstɔːrts/","/dɪˈstɔːrtɪd/","/dɪˈstɔːrtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Distort

to change the shape, appearance or sound of something so that it is strange or not clear

In simple words: To change something so it looks or sounds different from the original.

Distort in a sentence

• a fairground mirror that distorts your shape
• The loudspeaker seemed to distort his voice.
• Newspapers are often guilty of distorting the truth.

How to use Distort

Use 'distort' when something is misrepresented or not accurate. It's appropriate in both casual conversations and academic discussions, especially in art or media contexts. Avoid using it in very informal settings where simpler words like 'change' might suffice.

Grammar pattern

distort + object

Memory hint

Think of 'distort' as 'deform'—imagine a funhouse mirror that makes your reflection look weird.

Related words

Collocations with Distort

• grossly
• seriously
• severely

Synonyms for Distort

• twist
• warp
• misrepresent
• alter
• change

Opposites of Distort

• clarify
• preserve
• maintain

Common mistakes with Distort

• 'Distort' is often confused with 'disturb', which means to interrupt or upset.
• 'Distorted' is sometimes misused as a noun instead of an adjective.
• Some learners might incorrectly use 'distort' without an object, while it typically requires one.

Frequently asked questions about Distort

What does Distort mean?

To change something so it looks or sounds different from the original.

What is the definition of Distort?

to change the shape, appearance or sound of something so that it is strange or not clear

How do you use Distort in a sentence?

a fairground mirror that distorts your shape

Can you give another example of Distort?

The loudspeaker seemed to distort his voice.

What are synonyms for Distort?

Common alternatives include twist, warp, misrepresent, alter, change.

What is the opposite of Distort?

Opposite meanings include clarify, preserve, maintain.

What words go with Distort?

It commonly pairs with grossly, seriously, severely.

What are common mistakes when using Distort?

'Distort' is often confused with 'disturb', which means to interrupt or upset. 'Distorted' is sometimes misused as a noun instead of an adjective. Some learners might incorrectly use 'distort' without an object, while it typically requires one.

How do you pronounce Distort?

US: /["/dɪˈstɔːrt/","/dɪˈstɔːrts/","/dɪˈstɔːrtɪd/","/dɪˈstɔːrtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/dɪˈstɔːt/","/dɪˈstɔːts/","/dɪˈstɔːtɪd/","/dɪˈstɔːtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Distort?

Use 'distort' when something is misrepresented or not accurate. It's appropriate in both casual conversations and academic discussions, especially in art or media contexts. Avoid using it in very informal settings where simpler words like 'change' might suffice.

What CEFR level is Distort?

"Distort" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.