This is the 6931st most frequent Dutch word.
afgedwaald
Strayed or wandered off.
Here, 'afgedwaald' is used to depict a literal deviation from the expected route.
De wandelaar is van het pad afgedwaald.
The hiker has strayed off the path.
In this example, 'afgedwaald' represents a metaphorical straying of focus or concentration.
Tijdens de discussie ben ik even met mijn gedachten afgedwaald.
During the discussion, I briefly wandered with my thoughts.
Here, 'afgedwaald' illustrates a figurative diversion from a planned life or career trajectory.