Detour
/ˈdiːˌtʊr/
nounverbB1
Definition
A detour is a way that is not the usual or direct path, used to avoid something like a roadblock or traffic. People take detours to reach their destination safely or because the normal way is closed. As a verb, to detour means to send or guide someone to take this different path.
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See It in Action
Noun: A different or longer route taken to avoid a problem
- •We took a detour because the main road was closed for construction.
- •The GPS showed a detour around the flooded area.
- •Drivers followed the detour signs to avoid the accident.
Verb: To make someone take a different route
- •The police detoured traffic away from the accident site.
- •They detoured the hikers around the dangerous cliff.
- •The event organizers detoured the crowd to a safer area.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of 'detour' like 'way' or 'road,' but it is a special, longer way that you take because the normal way is blocked.
- ✓Picture a road with a big sign that says 'Detour,' and cars turning off the main street to follow a different street.
- ✓It feels a little frustrating when you have to take a detour because it takes more time, but it also can be a small adventure to see new places.
- ✓Sounds like 'DEE-toor' → imagine a door (sounds like 'tour') that you open to go on a different path.
- ✓Think of a story where a traveler’s usual path is closed, so they find a new path around the mountain to continue their journey.
- ✓NOT like 'shortcut' (a shorter or faster way); a detour is usually longer or slower.
- ✓NOT like 'route' (general way to go); a detour is a special change from the usual route because of a problem.
- ✓NOT like 'block' (something that stops you); a detour is the way around the block or problem.
Try Other Words
- •Bypass: a road or path that goes around a place (Use when the detour is planned to avoid a busy or difficult area)
- •Roundabout: a longer or indirect way to get somewhere (Use when the path is not direct but not caused by a problem)
- •Diversion: a change in direction or route (Use in formal or official contexts for detours caused by road work or events)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: 'de-' (away, off) + 'tour' (a journey or trip)
- •Etymology: From French 'détour,' meaning a roundabout way or deviation from the direct path
- •Historical development: Originally used in travel and military to describe a path around an obstacle; later used in everyday language for roads and routes
- •Modern usage: Commonly used for road signs, travel instructions, and also metaphorically for any indirect approach or change in plan
Reflect & Connect
•When have you had to take a detour in your life, and how did it change your experience?
•Can a detour sometimes be better than the normal way? Why or why not?
Fill in the blanks
1.We had to take a detour because the main road was ___ due to construction.
2.The police detoured traffic ___ the accident to keep everyone safe.
3.A detour is different from a shortcut because it usually makes the trip ___.
4.When you see a detour sign, it means you must ___ your usual path.
5.Sometimes a detour can lead to ___ places you have never seen before.
6.Drivers follow detour signs to avoid ___ or dangerous areas on the road.
7.The hikers were detoured around the cliff to ___ any accidents.