How Do You Spell DISTRACTORS?

Pronunciation: [dɪstɹˈaktəz] (IPA)

The word "distractors" is spelled with a silent letter "c" and is pronounced as /dɪsˈtræktərz/. The phonetic transcription reveals that the word consists of four syllables, with the primary stress on the second syllable. The "c" in "distractors" remains silent as it is followed by the letter "t", which has the same "k" sound. This word is commonly used in academic testing and refers to incorrect options in multiple-choice questions that are designed to distract or mislead test-takers.

DISTRACTORS Meaning and Definition

  1. Distractors are objects, elements, or factors that divert attention or cause interference in achieving focus or concentration on a particular activity or task. They are entities that draw away or pull apart attention from the intended focus, hindering the ability to concentrate effectively.

    In various contexts, distractors can manifest in different forms. For example, in educational settings, distractors are often multiple-choice options that are designed to divert students from choosing the correct answer. These incorrect options are deliberately included to confuse or misdirect the test-taker. Distractors in this context are intended to test the individual's ability to discern the correct response amidst enticing but inaccurate choices.

    In the workplace, distractors may include office noise, interruptions from colleagues, or unrelated tasks that divert one's attention from the primary workload. These distractions can undermine productivity and hinder the completion of tasks efficiently.

    In a psychological context, distractors are sometimes used to investigate cognitive processes. Research experiments may incorporate distractors to measure the effects of attention and concentration on mental performance.

    Overall, the term "distractors" refers to stimuli or factors that impede or divert concentration, attention, or focus, hindering the accomplishment of a specific objective or desired outcome.

Common Misspellings for DISTRACTORS

Etymology of DISTRACTORS

The word "distractors" is derived from the verb "distract", which comes from the Latin word "distractus", past participle of "distringere". In Latin, "distringere" is composed of the prefix "dis-" (meaning "apart" or "away") and "stringere" (meaning "to draw tight" or "to stretch"). Over time, "distract" evolved in English to refer to the act of diverting one's attention or causing mental confusion. The noun form "distractors" refers to things or factors that cause distraction.

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