detour
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈdiːtʊər/
KK: /ˈdɪtʊr/
noun
Definition
A path or route that is different from the usual one, often taken to avoid obstacles or delays.
Example
We had to take a detour because the main road was closed for construction.
Conversation
Did you hear about the road closure on Maple Street?
Yeah, I had to take a detour to get to work this morning.
That must have added extra time to your commute.
It did, but at least I discovered a new coffee shop along the way!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
bypass
diversion
deviation
Antonyms
directness
route
straightness
transitive verb
Definition
To cause someone or something to take a longer or different route than usual, often to avoid an obstacle or for a specific purpose.
Example
The construction on the main road forced us to detour through the back streets.
Tense Forms
Past: detoured
Past Participle: detoured
Conversation
Did you hear that the road is closed up ahead?
No, I didn't! Are we going to have to take a detour?
Yeah, I think we’ll need to detour around that area.
Root Explanation
Detour → It is formed from the prefix "de-" (meaning away from) and the root "tour" (from Old French *tour*, meaning a turn or a circuit). The word "detour" refers to a route that takes one away from the usual path or direction, often due to an obstruction or change in the original route.
Memory Tip
Think of taking a route that goes 'away from' ('de-') the usual 'turn' or path ('tour') — that's what a detour means.
Visually Confused Words
destour
detur
retour
devour
debtor
tour
dour