Synonyms for

Divert

Verb / daɪˈvɜ:t / / dɪˈvɜ:t / Another word for divert — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to cause someone or something to change course or turn from one direction to another

Synonyms & similar words

deviate hiveoff amuse disport redirect reroute distract deflect sidetrack deviate veer turn swing switch displace remove withdraw shift transfer reallocate channel funnel

Synonyms by register

Formal

redirect reroute channel deflect

Informal

change course turn aside steer away

Literary

avert sway

Antonyms

converge gather unite concentrate focus join

Common collocations

  • divert traffic
  • divert attention
  • divert funds
  • divert resources
  • divert a call
  • divert the course
  • divert from the path

Word family

noun diversion
verb divert
adjective diverting

Usage note

Often used to describe changing the direction of something, whether physical (like traffic) or abstract (like attention or funds). Be mindful of context, as 'divert' can sometimes imply a negative or unauthorized redirection.

Example sentences

  1. The magician will divert your attention while he performs his trick.
  2. I'm going to divert the water from the sink to the bucket.
  3. The construction on the road will divert traffic for the next few months.
  4. The company will divert resources to the new project.
  5. He tried to divert the conversation away from his mistake.

Quotes

  • Humor is the great thing, the saving thing after all. The minute it crops up, all our irritations and resentments slip away, and a sunny spirit takes their place. - Mark Twain
  • The real man smiles in trouble, gathers strength from distress, and grows brave by reflection. - Thomas Paine
  • Comedy is simply a funny way of being serious. - Peter Ustinov

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