deflect from

USAGE SUMMARY

'deflect from' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It means to divert or turn away from the original direction, idea, or topic. Example sentence: She tried to deflect from the topic of the conversation by telling a joke.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"The governor continues to bring up issues to try to deflect from his record," Mr. Nelson said, in a deflection of his own.

The New York Times

Deflect from all the problems that afflict our country.

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Rapetti was blaming others only to deflect from his own culpability, Ms. Hickey said.

The New York Times

We didn't do it, so let's deflect from the accomplishment of someone who did.

The Guardian - Opinion

I think that's Bob just trying to deflect from what's really going on".

The New York Times

These novels are "softly rhetorical" works that deflect from "the epitome," she writes.

The New York Times - Books

We wouldn't belittle the seriousness of other forms of bigotry, or seek to deflect from it.

The Guardian - Opinion

They are using this to distract and deflect from their failures on Iraq and the economy.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

I won't be deflected from that".

Independent

This newspaper will not be deflected from its calling.

The Guardian

I reflect on resentment as illusion deflecting from, harshly inflecting, reality.

Yale University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deflect from" when you want to emphasize that someone is intentionally trying to avoid addressing a central issue by drawing attention elsewhere.

Common error

Avoid using "deflect from" when describing unintentional diversions. The phrase implies a deliberate attempt to shift focus, so ensure the context aligns with this intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "deflect from" functions primarily as a means to describe the action of diverting attention or focus away from a specific subject. Ludwig shows the use of this phrase in contexts where individuals or entities intentionally avoid addressing a particular issue.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deflect from" is a commonly used phrasal verb that describes the act of diverting attention away from something, often intentionally. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and actively used in English writing. Predominantly found in news and media sources, "deflect from" carries a neutral to formal register, suggesting a deliberate shift in focus to avoid scrutiny or address uncomfortable truths. The phrase is versatile, applicable across various contexts including politics, personal responsibility, and strategic communication, always implying a diversionary tactic. When writing, ensure the context supports the intentionality behind the deflection to maintain accuracy and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divert attention from

Focus is shifted away from something else

draw attention away from

Attention is redirected to something different

distract from

Causes someone to lose focus on something

shift the focus from

Emphasis is moved to another area

draw a veil over

Obscures something from view

turn away from

Changes the direction or course of action.

evade

Avoiding dealing with a problem directly

sidestep

Avoid something by stepping to the side

brush aside

Treat something as unimportant

skirt around

Avoid dealing directly with an issue

FAQs

How can I use "deflect from" in a sentence?

You can use "deflect from" to describe someone avoiding a topic, for example: "The politician tried to deflect from the scandal by talking about the economy".

What's a good substitute for "deflect from"?

Alternatives include "divert attention from", "distract from", or "shift the focus from", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to "deflect from" something?

While often used in negative contexts to describe attempts to evade responsibility or scrutiny, "deflect from" can also be used neutrally to describe redirecting focus for strategic reasons.

What's the difference between "deflect from" and "detract from"?

"Deflect from" implies a deliberate attempt to shift attention elsewhere, whereas "detract from" means to diminish the value or importance of something without necessarily redirecting focus.