Détourner (en. Divert)

/detuʁne/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench

verb

Change the direction of an object or thing.

He diverted the conversation to a more pleasant topic.

Il a détourné la conversation vers un sujet plus agréable.

To use something in an unintended way.

He misappropriated funds intended for research.

Il a détourné les fonds destinés à la recherche.

To take a different path or route.

We need to divert to avoid traffic lights.

Nous devons détourner pour éviter les feux de circulation.

From the prefix 'de-' and 'turn', evoking the idea of turning elsewhere.

divert attention

To make someone not pay attention to something.

détourner l'attention

divert a glance

Not looking at someone or something directly.

détourner un regard

divert the codes

To interpret or use codes in an unconventional manner.

détourner les codes

turn

To pivot or change direction.

tourner

diversion

The act of diverting, a change of use or direction.

détournement

deviation

Change of direction, often in relation to roads.

déviation

To manipulate a situation to one’s advantage.

He diverted the situation to avoid responsibility.

Il a détourné la situation pour ne pas avoir de responsabilité.

To deviate from established rules.

She deliberately bent the rules to win.

Elle a délibérément détourné les règles pour gagner.