a deviation from the

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deviation from the" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a departure from a standard, norm, or expected behavior in various contexts, such as academic writing, reports, or analyses. Example: "The study revealed a significant deviation from the expected results, prompting further investigation into the underlying causes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Traceable cause suggests a deviation from the norm.

The New Yorker

Lee proposed a deviation from the standard practice of dueling.

Britannica

"He is not a deviation from the norm, but the norm itself".

The New York Times

Style itself represents a deviation from the ordinary.

The New York Times

Since it is a deviation from the norm, the extra-wide or extra-long photograph has a built-in attraction.

The New York Times - Arts

Reducing state expenditure by encouraging private contributions is not a deviation from the principles of the welfare state.

The Guardian

% and are assumed to be i.i.d !!! % NOTE: the ML estimator does not detect a deviation from the model.

Yale University

If a deviation from the scheduled day is desired, faculty must seek approval from the appropriate division dean.

Columbia University

Failure to write or maintain a copy of the SSM plan is a deviation from the requirements of this subpart.

Cornell University

Although, for some compounds a deviation from the correlation suggests that other transport mechanisms may coexist.

European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics

Again, it is a deviation from the books but could serve to series well dramatically.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a deviation from the", ensure that the standard or norm being deviated from is clearly defined to provide context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "a deviation from the" without explicitly stating what the deviation is from. This can lead to ambiguity and confusion for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deviation from the" functions as a noun phrase acting as a subject complement or object in a sentence. It indicates a departure or variance from a standard, norm, or expectation, aligning with Ludwig's assessment.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a deviation from the" is a versatile and frequently used expression that signifies a departure or difference from a standard, norm, or expected behavior. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and applicable in various contexts. Predominantly found in "News & Media", "Science", and "Academia", its formality can range from neutral to formal. When employing this phrase, ensure the reference point—the 'the'—is clearly established to maintain clarity. Alternatives like ""a departure from the"" or ""a divergence from the"" can be used depending on the specific shade of meaning desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a departure from the

Focuses on the act of leaving or straying from a standard.

a divergence from the

Implies a branching off or separation from a common path.

a variance from the

Highlights a difference or discrepancy from a norm.

a departure with respect to the

Adds specificity by indicating the aspect from which the deviation occurs.

an alteration of the

Emphasizes the process of change or modification.

a digression from the

Suggests a temporary departure, often in speech or writing.

a shift away from the

Indicates a movement or change in direction.

a straying from the

Implies wandering or drifting away, often unintentionally.

an exception to the

Denotes something that does not follow the general rule.

a contravention of the

Suggests a violation or breach of a rule or law.

FAQs

How can I use "a deviation from the" in a sentence?

Use "a deviation from the" to describe an instance where something differs or diverges from a standard, norm, or expected behavior. For example, "The study showed "a deviation from the norm" in patient response to treatment."

What are some alternatives to "a deviation from the"?

Alternatives include "a departure from the", "a divergence from the", or "a variance from the", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "a deviation of the" instead of "a deviation from the"?

No, the correct preposition to use is "from". "A deviation of the" is grammatically incorrect. Use "a deviation from the" to indicate a departure or difference.

What's the difference between "a deviation from the norm" and "an exception to the rule"?

"A deviation from the norm" suggests a general departure from what is typical or expected, while "an exception to the rule" specifically implies not following a defined rule or guideline. The former is broader and the latter is more specific.