verb/nounpl: sidetracks (noun)
desvios; linhas secundárias; distrai; desvia
1. (verb) To divert someone from the main purpose or course of action; to distract
Don't let minor issues sidetrack you from your main goal.
Não deixe que problemas menores o desviem do seu objetivo principal.
2. (verb) To put a train on a sidetrack (railroad terminology)
The conductor sidetracks the freight train to allow the express to pass.
O condutor desvia o trem de carga para permitir que o expresso passe.
3. (noun) A railroad track that branches off from the main line
The maintenance crew works on the sidetracks near the station.
A equipe de manutenção trabalha nos desvios perto da estação.
4. (noun) A subordinate issue or topic that distracts from the main subject
We got into several sidetracks during the meeting and never discussed the budget.
Entramos em vários desvios durante a reunião e nunca discutimos o orçamento.
In American English, 'sidetrack' is commonly used in business and academic settings to describe losing focus on priorities. In Brazilian Portuguese, 'desviar' carries the same meaning of diverting attention. The railroad terminology origin is less used in modern colloquial speech but remains important in transportation contexts in both cultures.
NYC Slang
Throw someone off; get sidelined
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