as a diversion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a diversion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is intended to distract or entertain someone from a more serious matter or task. Example: "She took up painting as a diversion from her stressful job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

As a diversion, Carl raised racehorses.

The New Yorker

As a diversion, two wineries stand out.

The New York Times - Magazine

This "non-game" is as much an electronic musical instrument as a diversion.

The Economist

I can't play World of Warcraft as a diversion from real life.

The New York Times - Arts

At the least, the future should not be used as a diversion from what is.

The New York Times

A fun, creative challenge is in order, as a diversion from the doom and gloom.

The New York Times

Foster took a philosophical approach, turning to another medium as a diversion.

The New York Times - Sports

Her daughter, Robbin, treats it as a diversion from her job search.

The New York Times

Saint-Gaudens also made many medallions, originally as a diversion from more serious tasks.

Encyclopedia Britannica

(Emma Watson has a thankless part as a diversion for Clark).

The New York Times

Mr. Allen sees music as a diversion, unconnected to his day job.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a diversion", ensure that the context clearly indicates what the subject is being diverted from. This adds clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "as a diversion" when the primary purpose of an activity is not to distract from something else. Ensure the activity serves as a secondary or temporary distraction, not the main focus.

Linguistic Context

As a diversion functions as a prepositional phrase, often serving as an adverbial modifier. It indicates the purpose or reason for engaging in a particular activity, namely, to distract from something more serious or unpleasant. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Wiki

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a diversion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that serves to indicate that something is done to distract from a more serious issue or task. Ludwig's analysis confirms its versatility, showing its presence across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While applicable in numerous scenarios, writers should ensure that the activity genuinely serves as a distraction to avoid misuse. The phrase is considered grammatically correct and appropriate for general usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a distraction

Focuses more directly on the act of drawing attention away from something.

for entertainment

Emphasizes the purpose of providing amusement or enjoyment.

to pass the time

Highlights the aspect of filling a period with activity to avoid boredom.

as a pastime

Suggests a recreational activity pursued regularly for enjoyment.

for recreation

Implies engaging in activities for relaxation and enjoyment.

as a form of escapism

Emphasizes the desire to escape from reality or routine.

to unwind

Focuses on the act of relaxing and reducing stress.

as a recreational activity

Highlights a specific activity done for leisure and enjoyment.

for a change of pace

Indicates a desire for something different from the usual routine.

as a means of relaxation

Emphasizes the stress-reducing benefits of the activity.

FAQs

How can I use "as a diversion" in a sentence?

Use "as a diversion" to indicate that an activity is done to distract from something more serious or unpleasant. For example, "She took up gardening "as a diversion" from her stressful job".

What are some alternatives to saying "as a diversion"?

You can use alternatives such as "as a distraction", "for entertainment", or "to pass the time" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "as diversion" instead of "as a diversion"?

No, the correct phrasing is ""as a diversion"". The article "a" is necessary because "diversion" is a countable noun in this context.

What's the difference between "as a diversion" and "as a hobby"?

"As a diversion" implies an activity taken up to distract from something else, while "as a hobby" simply indicates a leisure activity done for enjoyment, without necessarily distracting from anything.