B2verb 2K

Distract

UK /["/dɪˈstrækt/","/dɪˈstrækts/","/dɪˈstræktɪd/","/dɪˈstræktɪŋ/"]/ US /["/dɪˈstrækt/","/dɪˈstrækts/","/dɪˈstræktɪd/","/dɪˈstræktɪŋ/"]/ Pronunciation

Definition

to take somebody’s attention away from what they are trying to do

Listen to definition

In simple words: To take someone's attention away from something.

Examples

• You're distracting me from my work.
• Don't talk to her—she's very easily distracted.
• It was another attempt to **distract attention** from the truth.
• He’s easily distracted from his work
• an attempt to distract attention away from the real problems in the country

Usage notes

Use when talking about losing focus. Avoid in overly formal contexts or when discussing serious topics where focus is crucial.

Grammar pattern

distract + object

Memory hint

Think of a magician who distracts the audience with tricks.

Collocations

• easily
• momentarily
• temporarily
• (away) from

Synonyms

• divert

Antonyms

• focus
• concentrate
• engage

Common mistakes

• 'Distract' is not reflexive; do not say 'I distracted myself'.
• Confusion with 'distracted' as a noun, which is incorrect.
• Mixing up 'distract' with 'detract', which means to take away value.