deflection

A change in direction caused by hitting something or being pushed aside.

• The shot took a deflection.
• A deflection off a defender sent the ball wide.
• The mirror caused a deflection of the light beam.

How to use it: a deflection off someone/something (The ball took a deflection off the goalkeeper.)

Similar words: deviation

Common phrases: take a deflection, slight deflection, deflection off something

Avoiding a question, criticism, or problem by turning attention to something else.

• His joke was a deflection.
• Changing the subject was another attempt at deflection.
• She recognized his attack as a deflection of blame.

Similar words: evasion, avoidance

Common phrases: deflection of criticism, tactic of deflection, mere deflection

The movement of a needle or measuring part away from its starting position.

• The needle showed a small deflection.
• A stronger current produces greater deflection.
• Measure the deflection from the zero mark.

How to use it: the deflection of something (We recorded the deflection of the meter's needle.)

Similar words: displacement, deviation

Common phrases: needle deflection, maximum deflection, deflection of something

The bending of a structure or object when weight or force is applied to it.

• The beam showed visible deflection.
• Engineers measured the bridge's deflection under load.
• Thicker steel can reduce deflection.

Similar words: bending, deformation

Common phrases: beam deflection, maximum deflection, deflection under load