Synonyms for

Distracted

Verb / dɪˈstræktʌd / / dɪˈstræktɪd / Another word for distracted — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

unable to concentrate because one's mind is preoccupied

Synonyms & similar words

unhinge trouble cark perturb distrait disquiet distract deflect disorder absent-minded preoccupied inattentive forgetful unfocused scatterbrained bewildered confused discombobulated flustered unsettled jittery nervous anxious worried troubled disturbed bothered harassed tormented

Synonyms by register

Formal

preoccupied inattentive absent-minded

Informal

spaced out out of it daydreaming zoned out

Literary

bewildered dazed faraway

Antonyms

focused attentive concentrated earnest present engaged mindful

Common collocations

  • easily distracted
  • distracted by
  • distracted from
  • distracted attention
  • distracted driver
  • distracted mind
  • distracted gaze

Word family

noun distraction
verb distract
adjective distracted
adverb distractedly

Usage note

Often used to describe a lack of focus due to external stimuli or internal thoughts. Can imply a temporary state rather than a permanent characteristic.

Example sentences

  1. The boy was too distracted by the video game to hear his mom calling him for dinner.
  2. The driver was distracted by his phone and caused a car accident.
  3. The teacher noticed that the students were distracted and decided to change the subject.

Quotes

  • I get distracted by everything because I want to see everything.
  • The art of conversation is the art of hearing as well as of being heard.
  • I cannot concentrate all my friendship on any single one of my friends because no one is complete enough in himself.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words