Pronunciation: [dɪstɹˈakʃən] (IPA) 
The word "distraction" is spelled with a "c" and not a "t" even though it may sound like there is a "t" in the pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for "distraction" is /dɪˈstrækʃən/. The "c" in the spelling represents the sound of "k" which is not as prominent as the "s" sound that may be heard. This is a common mistake in spelling, so it's important to double-check when writing this word to avoid any confusion.
Distraction refers to a mental or physical state of being drawn away from one's focus or attention due to the presence of external stimuli or internal thoughts. It is the act or process of diverting or sidetracking one's mind or concentration from the task at hand.
In a psychological context, distractions can come in various forms, such as noises, interruptions, visual stimuli, or emotional triggers, that disrupt cognitive processes and hinder optimal productivity or engagement. These distractions cause a temporary shift of attention away from what one should be focusing on, resulting in reduced efficiency or loss of concentration.
Distractions can also be self-imposed in the form of procrastination, daydreaming, or engaging in activities unrelated to the current task. In this sense, distraction implies a lack of discipline or the inability to maintain sustained attention.
Distractions can have both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, they may provide relaxation, relief from stress, or creative inspiration. However, when distractions interfere with important responsibilities, goals, or objectives, they can impede progress and hinder success.
Recognizing and managing distractions is important for achieving productivity and maintaining concentration. Strategies to overcome distractions often involve creating a conducive work environment, setting clear goals and priorities, practicing mindfulness or meditation, implementing time management techniques, or eliminating unnecessary sources of interruptions.
Overall, distraction can be seen as a deviation or interruption from the intended focus, requiring individuals to consciously regain control of their attention for optimal performance.
1. Mental confusion, impossibility of concentration or fixation of the mind. 2. Extension on a limb made in a direction to draw apart the joint surfaces.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Confusion from a crowding of objects on the mind; perplexity; perturbation; madness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "distraction" derives from the Latin noun "distractio", which comes from the verb "distractum", meaning "to pull apart" or "to draw away". This Latin verb consists of the prefix "dis-" (meaning "apart" or "away") and the verb "trahere" (meaning "to draw" or "to pull"). Over time, the noun form "distractus" or "distraction" emerged in English to refer to the act or state of being drawn away or prevented from concentrating on something.
