desviar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Desviar is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

/inˈesβjaɾ/

Translation Options into English

• To divert
• To deviate
• To veer off course

Meaning and Usage

Desviar means to cause something or someone to change direction or course, often used in the context of physical movement, a flow of something (like traffic or water), or metaphorical context (like attention or a conversation). The frequency of use can be considered moderate, and it is commonly found in both oral and written contexts.

For instance, "desviar" is often employed when discussing traffic, project management, or when figuratively indicating a change in someone's attention or discussion topic.

Example Sentences

1. Es necesario desviar el tráfico debido a la construcción de la carretera.

2. It is necessary to divert traffic due to the road construction.

3. El viento puede desviar la trayectoria del proyectil.

4. The wind can deviate the projectile's path.

5. El maestro tuvo que desviar la conversación hacia un tema más apropiado.

6. The teacher had to steer the conversation towards a more appropriate topic.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Desviar" is not frequently featured in idiomatic expressions; however, the word can be part of phrases that convey a broader meaning related to diversion or distraction. Here are some examples:

1. Desviarse del tema (To deviate from the topic)
2. Es fácil desviarse del tema cuando hay tantas opiniones diferentes.

3. It's easy to deviate from the topic when there are so many different opinions.

4. Desviarse en el camino (To veer off the path)

5. Si no prestas atención, podrías desviarte en el camino y perderte.

6. If you don't pay attention, you could veer off the path and get lost.

7. Desviación de la atención (Deviation of attention)

8. La desviación de la atención es común durante las reuniones largas.

9. Deviating attention is common during long meetings.

10. Desviarse del propósito (To stray from the purpose)

11. Es importante no desviarse del propósito original del proyecto.
12. It is important not to stray from the original purpose of the project.

Etymology

The word desviar comes from the prefix "des-" (indicating negation or reversal) combined with "viar," which is derived from "via" (meaning way or road). Thus, the term literally translates to "to remove from the way."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Deslocar (to displace) - Desviar (to divert) - Alterar (to alter)

Antonyms: - Guiar (to guide) - Dirigir (to direct) - Conducir (to lead)

In summary, desviar is a versatile verb used in diverse contexts involving movement and changes in direction, both physically and metaphorically.