Derailed

Derailed refers to the action of causing a train or similar vehicle to exit its tracks inadvertently. Beyond its literal meaning, it can also signify a disruption or deviation from a planned course of action or development, often leading to unexpected complications or failures in various contexts such as projects, goals, or discussions.

Derailed meaning with examples

• The project was derailed by unforeseen budget cuts that left the team scrambling for resources. With key personnel unable to fulfill their duties, the timeline was significantly pushed back, leaving stakeholders frustrated and the initial vision for the project in jeopardy.
• When the meeting started to focus more on personal grievances than the agenda, the discussion was derailed. The key points that needed resolution were ignored while members aired their frustrations, ultimately leading to an unproductive gathering and no actionable outcomes.
• Her career plans were derailed when she unexpectedly became a caregiver for her ailing parent. With new responsibilities taking precedence, she found herself reevaluating her priorities and navigating a challenging balance between personal obligations and professional ambitions.
• The critical negotiations were derailed by a sudden shift in political sentiment, leaving both parties reevaluating their strategies. The once-promising dialogue turned tense, and the prospects for a mutually beneficial agreement began to look increasingly uncertain.