Definition of «derail»

The verb "to derail" means to cause something, such as a plan or project, to fail or go wrong. It can also refer to disrupting the progress of an event, situation or conversation by introducing an unrelated topic or changing the focus away from the original point. In addition, it can mean to divert a train or other vehicle from its intended course, often due to accident or sabotage.

Usage examples

  1. The ongoing political scandal has the potential to derail the government's plans for economic reform.
  2. The unexpected resignation of the CEO threatened to derail the company's expansion into new markets.
  3. The heated argument between team members threatened to derail the progress of the project.
  4. The sudden increase in prices of raw materials has the potential to derail the construction project.

Sentences with «derail»

  • So many transactions get derailed by not being transparent and setting proper expectations. (greenenergy.money)
  • Without sustainable peace, gains made through the MDGs framework will be reversed if not derailed by conflict or insecurity driven by deep - seated anger due to economic marginalisation or exclusion. (globaleducationmagazine.com)
  • Compassion and working to understand your teen's current experience go a long way to keeping him or her from getting derailed by puberty and adolescence. (additudemag.com)
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