throws off

Definition of throws offnext
present tense third-person singular of throw off
as in diverts
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

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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 throws off Blue Light Isn’t Actually the Main Problem The popular explanation — that blue light suppresses melatonin and throws off your circadian clock — is real but incomplete. Allison Palmer, Miami Herald, 13 Apr. 2026 What’s meant to feel relaxed and inviting often throws off the proportions and limits how the space can actually function. Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 3 Apr. 2026 In addition to the nausea and vomiting, scientists speculate appetite loss is also due to systemic stress that throws off the hormones that regulate hunger. Brad Stulberg, Outside, 26 Mar. 2026 The spin is being closely watched as a statement on the future of cable, which throws off significant cash but has been in rapid decline as viewers migrate to streaming. Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 5 Jan. 2026 But China has not made such statements, and there’s still a risk that the two strongmen can’t see eye to eye or a rogue comment throws off the delicate detente. Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 28 Oct. 2025 Perhaps an unexpected expense throws off your budget, or you’re no longer inspired by a recent investment. Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 27 Sep. 2025 An algae bloom throws off the balance of the ecosystem that keeps the water clear and fish and other aquatic life healthy. Charlotte Germane, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Sep. 2025 Lack of ample sleep throws off your body's internal clock, triggering a surge in stress hormones that cause blood vessels to narrow and blood pressure to rise. Md Published, Verywell Health, 19 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for throws off
Verb
  • Critics say the program diverts funds from public schools.
    Tribune News Service, Baltimore Sun, 9 Apr. 2026
  • The system diverts stormwater into a giant tank and then, at Fourteenth Street, pumps it out at up to three hundred and fifty million gallons a day, sending it on to the Newtown Creek wastewater facility.
    Eric Klinenberg, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Morgan concluded the practice, completing another one of Chesney’s specialties where the entire team distracts the return man from fielding a punt.
    Aaron Heisen, Daily News, 7 Apr. 2026
  • That is when Harbaugh will be able to crystallize for players like Cam Skattebo that football is the priority, and any outside nonsense that distracts from the goal of winning games is not going to be tolerated anymore.
    Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • If the expansion detracts somehow from the SARA cult fever, the co-owners are OK with that.
    Senior Wine Critic, San Francisco Chronicle, 15 June 2017

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Cite this Entry

“Throws off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/throws%20off. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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