divert

Everyday

1. To make something or someone change direction or go a different way: «divert traffic», «divert a river». tree →
2. To use money, time or supplies for a different purpose. tree →
3. To take someone's attention away from something: «divert attention». tree →
4. (formal, old) To amuse or entertain someone. tree →

In the lessons

In everyday life and news, flights and traffic are diverted because of storms or accidents; road signs say «Diversion». In stories a character may divert a guard's attention to escape. In safety lessons, following diversion signs keeps you safe. Phrases: «divert traffic», «divert attention from», «divert a flight», «divert funds».

Examples

• The police diverted the traffic round the accident. tree →
• Our flight was diverted to another airport because of fog. tree →
• The farmers diverted the stream to water their fields. tree →
• He told a joke to divert attention from his mistake. tree →
• The school diverted money to buy new books. tree →
• (formal) The puppet show diverted the children for an hour. tree →
• Thus they diverted themselves till evening, and in the evening they made ready to go to sleep. tree →

Note

Noun: «diversion» (UK: a road detour; also something to amuse you). Adjective «diverting» means amusing (formal). Do not confuse with «divest» or «convert».