distraction
dih-STRAK-shuhn
/dɪˈstrækʃən/
A thing that prevents someone from giving full attention to something else; extreme mental or emotional agitation.
Can refer to both a minor annoyance (like a phone ping) or a deep state of mental confusion and distress.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the Latin 'distrahere', combining 'dis-' (apart) and 'trahere' (to pull or draw). Literally, a distraction is something that 'pulls your mind apart' in different directions—a vivid description of how it feels to receive a text message while trying to write a report.
Word relationships
- diversion: A diversion is often a pleasant, voluntary break from work, whereas a distraction is usually an unwanted interruption of focus.
- disturbance: A disturbance physically disrupts a peaceful state, while a distraction specifically targets cognitive attention.
- focus: Focus is the concentration of attention on a single point, the opposite of distraction.
- absorption: Absorption is being completely lost in an activity, leaving no room for distraction.
Commonly confused with
- interruption: An interruption physically stops an activity, while a distraction diverts the mind's attention while the activity might technically continue.
Word family
- distract (verb): To divert someone's attention.
- distracting (adjective): Serving to distract or draw attention away.
Collocations
- source of distraction
- constant distraction
- free from distraction
Idioms & expressions
- drive someone to distraction
Example sentences
- "The open-plan office was filled with distraction, from loud conversations to the constant hum of the coffee machine." A study on workplace productivity.
- "All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone, free from distraction." A classic philosophical observation.
Memory hook
Think of a tractor ('trac') pulling your brain in two opposite directions. Your brain pulled in different directions.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a physical obstacle that blocks your path; it refers strictly to an obstacle of attention or mind.
Fun facts
- In medieval times, 'distraction' was used to describe physical torture where horses were tied to a prisoner's limbs to pull them apart.
Related words
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