Synonyms for

Detour

Verb / dɪˈtʊr / / ˈdi:tʊr / Another word for detour — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a long or roundabout route taken to avoid something or to visit somewhere along the way

Synonyms & similar words

roundaboutway diversion bypass deviation divert reroute circumvent dodge skirt sidestep veer swerve avoid evade elude escape

Synonyms by register

Formal

diversion alternative route byway

Informal

shortcut side trip roundabout way

Literary

wandering circuitous path

Antonyms

directness straightforwardness route path course line

Common collocations

  • take a detour
  • make a detour
  • detour around
  • detour through
  • planned detour
  • unexpected detour
  • road detour

Word family

noun detour
verb detour

Usage note

While 'detour' can be used metaphorically for a change in plans or a digression, its primary meaning relates to a physical route change. Avoid using it for abstract concepts where 'digression' or 'aside' might be more appropriate.

Example sentences

  1. We had to take a detour because of the road construction.
  2. Let's take a detour and see the ocean before we get to the hotel.
  3. The GPS suggested a detour to avoid traffic.
  4. We decided to detour through the countryside to enjoy the scenery.
  5. The driver had to detour around the accident on the highway.

Quotes

  • Life is a detour, not a destination.
  • Detours are not dead ends. Just detours.
  • A detour is a path you didn't plan for, but often the best path.

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