English dictionary



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English verb: deflect

1. deflect (social) prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening


SamplesLet's avoid a confrontation.
Head off a confrontation.
Avert a strike.


Synonymsavert, avoid, debar, fend off, forefend, forfend, head off, obviate, stave off, ward off


Pattern of useSomebody ----s something.
Something ----s something


Broader (hypernym)forbid, foreclose, forestall, preclude, prevent

2. deflect (motion) turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest


Synonymsbend, turn away


Pattern of useSomebody ----s something.
Something ----s something


Broader (hypernym)turn

3. deflect (motion) turn aside and away from an initial or intended course


Pattern of useSomething ----s.
Somebody ----s


Broader (hypernym)turn

4. deflect (emotion) draw someone's attention away from something


SamplesThe thief distracted the bystanders.
He deflected his competitors.


Synonymsdistract


Pattern of useSomebody ----s somebody.
Something ----s somebody


Broader (hypernym)confuse, disconcert, flurry, put off

5. deflect (competition) impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)


SamplesBlock an attack.


ExamplesThe fighter managed to deflect his opponent


Synonymsblock, parry


Pattern of useSomebody ----s something


Broader (hypernym)fence









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