sidetrack

[US]/'saɪdtræk/
[UK]/'saɪdtræk/
Frequency: Very High

Translation

n. diversion from the main track or objective, relegation to a secondary position
vt. to divert onto a sidetrack, to redirect focus, to distract or hinder

Example Sentences

the effort at reform has been sidetracked for years.

he didn't want them to get sidetracked on a detail of policy.

I was sidetracked from my work by an unexpected visitor.

he does not let himself get sidetracked by fads and trends.

Don't sidetrack from the main topic during the meeting.

It's easy to sidetrack a conversation with irrelevant details.

She tends to sidetrack when she's nervous.

Let's not sidetrack into personal matters right now.

The teacher had to sidetrack the discussion to keep it on track.

I don't want to sidetrack you from your work, but I need your help.

The project was sidetracked by budget cuts.

It's important not to let distractions sidetrack you from your goals.

She always manages to sidetrack me with interesting stories.

We must avoid getting sidetracked by minor issues.

Real-world Examples

He was tired of Annie getting sidetracked.

Source: Magic Tree House

Unlike your usual self, you were easily sidetracked and all your regular tasks felt like monumental hurdles.

Source: Psychology Mini Class

" You're kidding! What did you say? ! " she gasped, completely sidetracked.

Source: Twilight: Eclipse

" I wanted to ask you something, but you sidetracked me, " he chuckled.

Source: Twilight: Eclipse

We could snap a rubber band on our wrists every time we get sidetracked.

Source: The Big Bang Theory Season 8

India got sidetracked with its own elections this spring, and so now Pompeo is back to continue that effort.

Source: NPR News June 2019 Compilation

Sometimes when the conversation is flowing really well, it's easy to get sidetracked or to go off-topic or to go off track.

Source: Emma's delicious English

OK, I accept the fact that I am occasionally unreliable...and I often get sidetracked, but I thought you liked that about me.

Source: Gourmet food, prayer, and love

But somehow, she got sidetracked by swearing.

Source: Freakonomics

I spent a great deal of money making sure Mr. Loze's limo gets quietly sidetracked.

Source: Cat and Mouse Game Season 1

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