deflect it

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deflect it" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to redirecting or diverting something, such as attention, criticism, or an object. Example: "In order to avoid confrontation, she decided to deflect it by changing the subject."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

And it is having problems attracting investment for its oil and gas industries.Will this help deflect it from its nuclear path?

The Economist

Those who would deflect it from its path must not, and surely will not, succeed.

The Economist

There would surely be a consensus that we should start straight away and do our damnedest to find ways to deflect it or mitigate its effects.

Huffington Post

So long as it is free to move about, all attempts to deflect it will not get away from its normal direction.

Huffington Post

When the children are admired, I instinctively deflect it.

The New Yorker

I don't command attention so much as actively deflect it.

The Guardian

Cone can do no more than deflect it.

The New York Times - Sports

Valeri curled a Portland free kick around the wall but Ousted leapt to deflect it wide.

The Guardian - Sport

But Ramos hurls himself in front of the shot to deflect it over.

The Guardian - Sport

Some players absorb pressure, others thrive on it and yet others attempt to deflect it.

The Guardian - Sport

But Mokoena reacted quickly to deflect it behind for a corner.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deflect it" in sports writing, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you are referring to a physical deflection (like a ball) or a more metaphorical deflection (like blame or attention).

Common error

Avoid using "deflect it" when "redirect it" or "mitigate it" are more appropriate. "Deflect it" implies an attempt to completely avoid something, whereas the other options suggest a more controlled management of the situation or object.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deflect it" primarily functions as a verb phrase, where "deflect" is the verb and "it" is the object. According to Ludwig AI, this construction is grammatically correct and common. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its use in contexts ranging from sports to politics.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sport

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "deflect it" is a versatile and commonly used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Grammatically correct, it describes the act of turning something aside, whether physically or metaphorically. While appearing frequently in news, sports, and science contexts, its neutral register makes it adaptable to various writing styles. Consider alternatives like "redirect it" or "divert it" for nuanced meanings. When using "deflect it", ensure the context is clear and that it accurately reflects the intended meaning of avoidance or redirection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

redirect it

Focuses on changing the direction something is going.

divert it

Implies changing the course or path of something.

avert it

Suggests preventing something from happening or turning away from it.

ward it off

Indicates defending against something, like an attack or criticism.

fend it off

Similar to ward off, implying resistance or defense.

turn it aside

Emphasizes rejecting or refusing something.

shrug it off

Suggests dismissing something as unimportant or insignificant.

defuse it

Implies neutralizing a dangerous or tense situation.

mitigate it

Focuses on reducing the severity or impact of something.

re-route it

Highlights changing the planned route or destination.

FAQs

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

You can use "deflect it" to describe redirecting something, like "The goalkeeper managed to "deflect it" wide" or avoiding something, like "He tried to "deflect it" by changing the subject".

What's the difference between "deflect it" and "redirect it"?

"Deflect it" suggests a complete change of direction, often to avoid something, whereas "redirect it" implies guiding something to a different, but still intended, destination.

What are some alternatives to using "deflect it"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "redirect it", "divert it", or "ward it off".

Is "deflect it" formal or informal?

"Deflect it" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although its suitability depends on the surrounding language and specific situation. In professional settings, "redirect it" or "mitigate it" might be preferred for greater precision.