01
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
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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.
Compare with
Ablenkung vs Unterhaltung
conversation / entertainment / maintenance
'die Unterhaltung' and 'die Ablenkung' can both mean something pleasant that you do in your free time. The difference lies in the perspective. 'Unterhaltung' emphasizes that something is fun or interesting, for example a film or a show. 'Ablenkung' emphasizes that it keeps you from thinking about work, worries, or a problem. That is why the words can sometimes appear in the same situation, but they do not say exactly the same thing. If the fun is the main focus, 'Unterhaltung' fits. If you are doing something to clear your head, 'Ablenkung' is a better fit.
Ablenkung
Nach dem schwierigen Termin braucht Tom ein bisschen Ablenkung.
After the difficult appointment, Tom needs a bit of distraction.
Unterhaltung
Am Abend sorgt die Band im Park für gute Unterhaltung.
In the evening, the band in the park provides good entertainment.
In real life
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