C1verb2K

Divert

UK /["/daɪˈvɜːt/","/daɪˈvɜːts/","/daɪˈvɜːtɪd/","/daɪˈvɜːtɪŋ/"]/US /["/daɪˈvɜːrt/","/daɪˈvɜːrts/","/daɪˈvɜːrtɪd/","/daɪˈvɜːrtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make somebody/something change direction

In simple words: to change the direction of something or to take someone's attention away

Examples

  • The course of the stream has now been diverted.
  • Northbound traffic will have to be diverted onto minor roads.
  • More of the budget was diverted into promotions.
  • The war diverted people's attention away from the economic situation.
  • She managed to divert the baby onto a different activity.
  • Children are easily diverted.

Usage notes

Use 'divert' when discussing redirecting something, like traffic or attention. It works in both formal and informal contexts, but is less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

divert + object

Memory hint

Think of 'diverting' a river's flow — you change its path!

Collocations

  • divert traffic
  • divert attention
  • divert resources
  • divert funds
  • divert a conversation

Synonyms

  • redirect
  • deflect
  • sidetrack
  • alter
  • change

Antonyms

  • direct
  • maintain
  • focus

Common mistakes

  • 'Divert' used without an object (e.g., saying 'He will divert.' instead of 'He will divert traffic.')
  • Confusing 'divert' with 'divide' where learners might think they mean the same thing.
  • Using 'divert' in a context where 'entertain' or 'amuse' would be more appropriate.