sidetrack
Translation
to sidetrack, to distract, to divert
Examples
Don't sidetrack me with irrelevant questions.
Don't sidetrack me with irrelevant questions.
The meeting got sidetracked onto another topic.
The meeting got sidetracked onto another topic.
Grammar Patterns
((to sidetrack sb.)) ((with sth.)) to distract sb. with sth. Don't sidetrack me with irrelevant questions.
((to get sidetracked)) to be distracted The meeting got sidetracked onto another topic.
Similar Words
Synonyms: distract, divert, derail, deflect; Antonyms: focus, concentrate
Etymology
A combination of 'side' and 'track,' literally meaning to move a train to a side track or siding.
Memory Tips
Picture a train being shunted onto a 'side track' to let the main train pass. This is what happens to a conversation or task.