diversion
/daɪˈvɜːʃn/
noun
1 countable, uncountable the act of changing the direction that somebody/something is following, or what something is used for a river diversion project
We made a short diversion to go and look at the castle.
the diversion of funds from the public to the private sector of industry
Collocations
adjective
verb + diversion
preposition
diversion from
diversion to
2 countable something that takes your attention away from somebody/something while something else is happening For the government, the war was a welcome diversion from the country's economic problems.
A smoke bomb created a diversion while the robbery took place.
The fire was started to create a diversion, allowing some prisoners to escape.
Collocations
adjective
verb + diversion
preposition
diversion from
3 countable (British English) (North American English detour) a road or route that is used when the usual one is closed Diversions will be signposted.
The road will be closed for two days; diversions have been signposted.
The main road is now closed and diversions are in operation.
Collocations
adjective
verb + diversion
diversion + verb
4 countable (rather formal) an activity that is done for pleasure, especially because it takes your attention away from something else The party will make a pleasant diversion.
The city is full of diversions.
diversion from something
TV provided a welcome diversion from our routine.
Collocations
adjective
verb + diversion
e.g.