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deviate

deviate

Intransitive Verb

past: deviatedpp: deviateding: deviating

This term carries a clinical or technical tone, often suggesting a departure from a standard, a norm, or a precise trajectory. It is frequently used in scientific, mathematical, or aviation contexts to describe a measurable difference between an expected value and an actual result.

In social or behavioral contexts, the word can imply a breach of convention or a failure to adhere to established rules. While not always negative, it often suggests an anomaly or an irregularity that requires explanation or correction.

Meanings

Intransitive Verbdeviate

[~ from something]

To do something different from what is usual, expected, or planned.

The actual results deviate from the original projections.

Intransitive Verbdeviate

[~ from something]

To move away from a planned route or a straight line.

The aircraft had to deviate from its flight path to avoid the storm.

Examples

Please do not deviate from the original script during the presentation.

Business

The pilot had to deviate from the flight path to avoid a severe storm.

Travel

I wonder if I should deviate from my usual routine and try something new today.

We cannot afford to deviate from the budget at this stage of the project.

Business

The spacecraft began to deviate from its trajectory after the engine failure.

Why did you deviate from the instructions I gave you earlier?

Office

The river deviates from its course and winds through the valley.

He rarely deviates from his strict diet even during the holidays.

Health

Let us not deviate from the main topic of our discussion.

Office

Phrasal Verbs

deviate from

to depart from an established plan, standard, or route

The company decided to deviate from its traditional marketing strategy to attract a younger audience.

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error