die Ablenkung
distraction
Something that draws attention away from an activity, a thought, or a problem.
EXAMPLE
Beim Lernen ist das Handy eine ständige Ablenkung.
When studying, the phone is a constant distraction.
die Ablenkung
distraction / diversion
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Meanings
die Ablenkung
diversion
An entertaining activity or pleasure that serves to help you recover from worries or work.
EXAMPLE
Nach der anstrengenden Woche brauche ich etwas Ablenkung und gehe ins Kino.
After the exhausting week, I need some diversion and am going to the movies.
Usage tips
Word structure
'Ablenkung' (distraction/diversion) is derived from the separable verb 'ablenken' (to distract/divert). It consists of 'ab-' (away) and 'lenken' (to steer). Literally, it means to 'steer away' attention.
EXAMPLE
Lass dich nicht von den lauten Geräuschen ablenken!
Don't let the loud noises distract you!
Context clue
The meaning depends strongly on the context. In connection with work or concentration, 'Ablenkung' (distraction) is negative. In the context of free time or stress, it is positive (recreation, diversion).
EXAMPLE
Jede Unterbrechung ist eine unerwünschte Ablenkung.
Every interruption is an unwanted distraction.
Typical collocations
In the negative meaning, 'Ablenkung' (distraction) is often combined with words like 'ständig' (constant), 'unerwünscht' (unwanted), or 'unnötig' (unnecessary). The expression 'Ablenkung vom Wesentlichen' (distraction from what matters) is also common.
EXAMPLE
Soziale Medien sind für viele eine ständige Ablenkung.
Social media is a constant distraction for many people.
Typical verbs
In the positive meaning, 'Ablenkung' (diversion) is often used with verbs like 'suchen' (to look for), 'finden' (to find), 'brauchen' (to need), or 'sorgen für' (to provide).
EXAMPLE
Nach dem langen Arbeitstag brauche ich dringend etwas Ablenkung.
After the long workday, I urgently need some diversion.
In real life
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