# detour

/ˈditʊɹ/ (US) · /dˈiːtɔː/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/detour
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a different route you take to avoid a problem like road repairs or heavy traffic. It is usually longer than your normal path.

For teachers: a roundabout way or circuitous route taken to avoid an obstruction or to visit a place off the direct path.

## Examples

- We had to take a detour because of the road construction.
- The main highway was closed after the accident, forcing all commuters to follow a long detour through the countryside.
- While the primary objective was to reach the summit before dusk, the group decided on a brief detour to admire the hidden waterfall tucked away in the valley.

## Usage notes

- Often used with the verbs 'take' or 'make'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.