Reading Theme:
Distraction: Definition, Usage & Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：a thing that takes attention away (distraction)
distraction
/dɪˈstrækʃn/
n.
Something that stops you from paying attention to what you are doing or to what is happening around you.
a thing that takes attention away
➕
ə θɪŋ ðæt teɪks əˈtɛnʃən əˈweɪ
n.
A distraction is an object, sound, or event that diverts your attention and makes it difficult to concentrate on your primary task.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'distractio', from 'distrahere' ('dis-' meaning 'apart' + 'trahere' meaning 'to pull, draw'). The literal sense is 'a pulling apart', which evolved to mean 'a drawing away of the mind'.
💡 Mnemonic
Dis-TRACTION – something that TRACTs (pulls) your attention DIS- (away) from what you're doing. Think of a tractor pulling your focus away.
📖 Example
While studying for the exam, the constant noise from the street outside was a major distraction.
When preparing for the test, the ongoing sound from the road served as a significant source of diverted attention.
🔗 Collocations
avoid distraction – To successfully prevent things from interrupting one's focus.
create a distraction – To intentionally cause something that will draw attention away from something else.
🔄 Synonyms
interruption (n.) – Something that temporarily stops an activity or process.
disruption (n.) – An event that causes a disturbance or problem that interrupts an activity.
🚫 Antonyms
focus (n.) – The center of interest or activity; concentrated attention.
concentration (n.) – The action or power of focusing all one's attention.
🌱 Derivatives
distract (v.) – To prevent someone from giving their full attention to something.
distracted (adj.) – Unable to concentrate because one's mind is preoccupied.
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from the Latin 'distractio', meaning a drawing or pulling apart. The word's evolution from a physical to a psychological sense (a division of attention) mirrors the growing understanding of the human mind. In modern discourse, 'distraction' is a central concept in psychology, productivity studies, and critiques of digital media's impact on attention spans.
Meaning 2：an enjoyable pastime (distraction)
distraction
/dɪˈstrækʃn/
n.
An activity or thing that you do for fun or to relax, especially when you want to stop thinking about something serious.
an enjoyable pastime
➕
ən ɪnˈdʒɔɪəbl ˈpæstaɪm
n.
A distraction is a pleasant or entertaining activity that provides relief from serious thoughts, stress, or routine, allowing for relaxation.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
After a long week at work, watching a funny movie is a welcome distraction.
Following a demanding work week, viewing a comedy film is a pleasantly diverting activity.
🔗 Collocations
provide a distraction – To supply an activity that offers a break from usual concerns.
welcome distraction – A diversion that is appreciated and needed.
🔄 Synonyms
diversion (n.) – An activity that is done for enjoyment and to take one's mind away from routine.
entertainment (n.) – Something that amuses, pleases, or diverts, especially a performance or show.
Wordbook
Your data is saved in this browser