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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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
  • Shepherding that split to reality will leave WBD leadership distracted for a year, Martin estimated.
    David Bloom, Forbes.com, 21 June 2025
  • Cho, as the perceptive and generous Jin, distracted from his own family troubles by the sudden flashes of Casey’s bright light, is wise and rejuvenated; disinterested admiration makes this man, who looks to be in his forties, nearly a teen-ager again.
    Richard Brody, New Yorker, 20 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Throw off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/throw%20off. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on throw off

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!