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to deflect
01
to change direction or turn aside, typically as a result of encountering an obstacle or external force
Intransitive
Examples
When light travels from air into water, it tends to deflect.
The bullet hit a hard surface and began to deflect.
02
to redirect focus or diverting someone's attention from a particular subject or matter
Transitive: to deflect a subject or issue
Examples
Her ability to deflect blame during international negotiations contributed to the successful resolution of the conflict.
The savvy manager was able to deflect criticism by acknowledging concerns.
03
to alter the course or direction of something, especially from its original path or trajectory
Transitive: to deflect sth
Examples
The armored tank was designed with sloped surfaces to deflect incoming projectiles.
The aerodynamic engineers worked on a wing design that would efficiently deflect air currents.
04
to stop a person from doing what they initially intended
Transitive: to deflect sb from sth
Examples
The skilled diplomat managed to deflect the leader from launching an attack.
Friends and family tried to deflect him from his self-destructive habits.
Lexical Tree
deflective
deflector
deflect
