Synonym Chooser

How is the word divert different from other verbs like it?

The words amuse and entertain are common synonyms of divert. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

In what contexts can amuse take the place of divert?

The meanings of amuse and divert largely overlap; however, amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When would entertain be a good substitute for divert?

Although the words entertain and divert have much in common, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

Examples of divert in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web No money is being diverted from disaster response needs. Rey Covarrubias Jr., The Arizona Republic, 19 Oct. 2024 Traffic was diverted away from West 10th Street between Eskenazi Avenue and St. Margaret's Drive from about 3:15 and 4:45 p.m., but the roadway has reopened in all directions. Jade Jackson, The Indianapolis Star, 18 Oct. 2024 Trump may be diverting resources away from swing states, not to woo voters, but to send a message to his base elsewhere, according to Northeastern University political science professor Costas Panagopoulos. Kinsey Crowley, USA TODAY, 15 Oct. 2024 As Hurricane Milton approached Florida Trump accused FEMA of diverting funds to migrant care instead of Americans impacted by the Hurricane Helene despite FEMA's strong denial. ABC News, 13 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for divert 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'divert.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near divert

Cite this Entry

“Divert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divert. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on divert

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