To divert or distract (one's mind) — to relieve boredom, sorrow, or distress by diverting attention.
深刻なニュースを見て気分が落ち込んだときは散歩で気を紛らわすことが多い。
When I feel down after watching serious news, I often distract myself by going for a walk.
試験前にゲームで一時的に気を紛らわすのは逆効果かもしれない。
Playing games briefly before an exam to distract yourself might be counterproductive.
彼は悲しみを紛らわすために旅行に出た。
He went traveling to get his mind off his sadness.
To conceal — to hide or cover up feelings or facts by diverting attention (e.g., changing the subject).
彼女は緊張を隠すために冗談を言って場を紛らわせた。
She told a joke to cover her nervousness and deflect attention.
本当の意図を紛らわすために別の話題を持ち出した。
He brought up another topic to conceal his real intention.
表情で悲しみを紛らわすのは難しいことがある。
It can be difficult to hide sadness with an expression.