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Definitions

derail

[dee-reyl] / diˈreɪl /
VERB
run off a track
Synonyms
STRONGEST
lurch slip topple wreck
STRONG
crash
Antonyms
STRONGEST
drive
VERB
cause not to succeed
Synonyms
STRONGEST
block deter filibuster hamper hinder impede interfere stall stonewall thwart
STRONG
break circumvent contravene counter curb deflect delay encumber foil frustrate halt hamstring inhibit interrupt muzzle neutralize obstruct oppose preclude prevent prohibit slow down stymie
WEAK
baffle get in the way hold back postpone restrain slow stay stop
Antonyms
STRONGEST
advance assist encourage expedite forward help promote

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“Don’t let one or two small failures in life derail you from your bigger goals.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 7, 2026

Sebastian Rucci, the chief executive of Imperial Valley Computer Manufacturing, is now suing the city alleging it unfairly worked to derail the data center.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

Capital Economics senior Europe economist Franziska Palmas said the survey and other recent indicators suggest "the renewed rise in energy prices could derail the tentative recovery in the German economy seen in recent months".

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

Will the disappointment of this defeat derail Arsenal?

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

They worried that something would derail him, crash his fast-moving train.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie