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 But Ukrainian jamming of satellite radios throws off Russian munitions’ accuracy more than Russian jamming throws off Ukrainian accuracy, as the Ukrainian bombs have superior backup guidance in the form of inertial systems that calculate a munition’s position by way of precise accelerometers. David Axe, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 There are also optical devices that gauge H2O2 concentrations based on how a plant fluoresces, but they can be thrown off by the plant's chlorophyll content. Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 22 Mar. 2025 Reliever Michael Kopech is scheduled to throw off a bullpen mound this weekend for the first time since going on the IL because of a shoulder impingement on March 17 but is weeks away from a return. Mike Digiovanna, Oc Register, 11 Apr. 2025 He’s scheduled to throw off a mound on April 15 and 18 then throw live batting practice on April 23. Andrew Wagner, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for throw off
Recent Examples of Synonyms for throw off
Verb
  • Too often, however, the temptation to blame individuals or groups for housing ills distracts from the actual debate and prevents all stakeholders from discovering their mutual interests.
    Matt Frazier, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The scientists now plan on developing the technology further, which will include boosting its ability to filter out distracting background noises such as those produced by body movements.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 19 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • Welch diverted a large portion of the loan money for the personal benefit of the couple, according to court documents.
    NWA Democrat-Gazette, Arkansas Online, 28 Apr. 2025
  • Those hotels have hospitality standards on par with many of the finest in the world, but no alcohol is served, with focus instead diverted to food, coffee, and experiences.
    Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 24 Apr. 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 2 May. 2025.

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