Definition
To deflect means to cause something to change direction or to avoid a direct impact, either intentionally or unintentionally. It can also refer to the act of avoiding or redirecting attention, criticism, or blame.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Verb
Synonyms
Divert, re-direct, shift, avert, sidetrack, evade, dodge, parry
Antonyms
Direct, confront, face, meet, absorb, accept
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | deflector, deflectors, deflections, deflection, deflexion, deflexions |
| Verb | deflects, deflect, deflecting, deflected |
| Adjective | deflective |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The skilled goalkeeper was able to deflect the powerful shot with a swift dive, preventing a certain goal and earning applause from the crowd.
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The politician artfully deflected questions about his controversial past, skillfully steering the conversation towards his future plans and accomplishments.
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In the face of criticism, she chose to deflect the negativity with grace and humility, focusing on her own growth and determination to overcome challenges.
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The reflective surface of the polished shield helped to deflect the blinding sunlight, allowing the warrior to maintain a clear view of the battlefield.
Usage
Deflect is a versatile verb that can be used in a variety of contexts. It is often used in a physical sense, to describe the way that an object or force is redirected or avoided. For example, a bulletproof vest is designed to deflect bullets away from the wearer’s body, and a shield can be used to deflect incoming attacks in a battle or combat situation.
Deflect can also be used in a more abstract sense, to describe the way that attention, criticism, or blame is redirected or avoided. For example, a politician might deflect questions about a scandal by focusing on a different issue, or a celebrity might deflect negative comments by changing the subject or making a joke.
The word “deflect” can be used with various prefixes and suffixes to create related words. For example, the prefix “self-” can be added to create the word “self-deflection,” which refers to the act of avoiding or deflecting criticism or blame onto oneself. The suffix “-ion” can be added to create “deflection,” which refers to the act of deflecting or avoiding something. The word “deflector” can be used to describe an object or device that is used to deflect or redirect something, such as a deflector shield in science fiction.
In summary, deflect is a verb that can be used to describe physical or abstract redirection or avoidance. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from combat and sports to politics and interpersonal relationships. Deflect can also be used with prefixes and suffixes to create related words that describe different aspects of redirection or avoidance.