throw off

as in to distract
to draw the attention or mind to something else the sudden noise just threw me off completely, and I missed my shot

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of throw off However, some survive and influence nearby broods that emerge on time, which can throw off the data that scientists collect. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 30 May 2025 To complicate matters, during times of high uncertainty, the implementation of policy can be thrown off course. London Business School, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025 And yet, Warner depends on the cash CNN’s flagship linear network throws off to fund its business, even if there will be less of it in months to come. Brian Steinberg, Variety, 11 June 2025 In a person infected with the COVID virus, the balance is thrown off and the production of those molecules is disrupted, which research shows can lead to blood clots or other blood disorders. Kff Health News, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for throw off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for throw off
Verb
  • The president’s critics, meanwhile, accuse him of using the scandal to distract from stalled reforms and growing public dissatisfaction.
    Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 30 June 2025
  • While the housing bill got lost among numerous priorities during this year’s legislative session, top leaders are now laser-focused on the issue and will not be distracted.
    Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • Severe weather conditions in the area led to ground stops and flights being diverted at the airport on Friday.
    Nadine El-Bawab, ABC News, 28 June 2025
  • Sharing surplus meals through community apps like Too Good To Go helps to address food insecurity while diverting food from landfills.
    Dianne Plummer, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Throw off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/throw%20off. Accessed 6 Jul. 2025.

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