a deviation from the norm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a deviation from the norm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that differs from what is typically expected or standard. Example: "The artist's latest work is a deviation from the norm, showcasing a unique style that challenges traditional boundaries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Traceable cause suggests a deviation from the norm.

The New Yorker

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

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

But Robert W. Mann Jr., an airline analyst based in Port Washington, N.Y., emphasized that such a performance would be a deviation from the norm.

The New York Times

But what if the last few years of playing fast and loose with credit were not a deviation from the norm but a return to America's economic roots?

The New York Times - Magazine

This has penetrated the political, economic, judicial and social systems so thoroughly that is has ceased to be a deviation from the norm and become the norm itself.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Against that backdrop, Paramount Television is introducing a syndicated talk show featuring Dr. Laura Schlessinger, the conservative advice maven whose radio audience has listened to her stern declarations that homosexuality is a deviation from the biological norm and incompatible with Scripture.

The New York Times

I've always found the term "empowered women" a bit troubling, as it suggests that a powerful woman is somehow an anomaly, a deviation from the accepted norm.

Huffington Post

The larviciding decision is a deviation from the reported norm, arguably falling on the messy end of the policymaking spectrum.

Health Policy and Planning

A report on any deviation from the norm would be welcome, from the disappearance of species to their sudden appearance in great quantities.

F1000Research

And yet it works, partially because any deviation from the norm is a better alternative.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a deviation from the norm", ensure that the context clearly establishes what the 'norm' is to avoid ambiguity. This provides a solid reference point for the deviation.

Common error

Avoid using "a deviation from the norm" in overly casual conversation. Simpler phrases such as "unusual" or "different" often work better and maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a deviation from the norm" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to something that differs from what is considered standard or typical. As Ludwig highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and generally usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a deviation from the norm" is a phrase used to describe something different from the standard or expected. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable across various contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. While it may sound overly formal in casual settings, it is valuable for its analytical precision. Remember to ensure that the 'norm' is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity and consider simpler alternatives such as "unusual" or "different" in informal contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a departure from the standard

This alternative highlights that something is not following the typical standard.

an irregularity

This alternative focuses on the lack of conformity or consistency.

a nonconformity

This alternative directly states the lack of conformity to a standard or norm.

an anomaly

This alternative is shorter and emphasizes the irregularity of the subject.

a divergence

This alternative suggests a branching off or separation from the usual path or course.

an exception to the rule

This alternative is a more common idiom indicating something that doesn't follow the usual rule.

an oddity

This alternative emphasizes the strangeness or peculiarity of the subject.

an aberration

This alternative is a more formal term suggesting something straying from what is normal or desirable.

a variation

This alternative is a neutral term indicating a difference without necessarily implying abnormality.

a unique case

This alternative frames the subject as being distinct and not easily comparable to others.

FAQs

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

Use "a deviation from the norm" to describe something that differs from the expected or standard. For example, "Her artistic style is "a deviation from the norm", incorporating unconventional materials".

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

You can use alternatives like "an anomaly", "a departure from the standard", or "an exception to the rule" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "a deviation from the norm"?

It is appropriate when you want to emphasize that something is not just different, but that it strays from what is generally considered standard or typical. This phrase is suitable for both formal and analytical contexts.

Is "a deviation from the norm" formal or informal?

"A deviation from the norm" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase. While understandable in most contexts, it may sound overly academic or stiff in very casual conversation. Simpler words might be preferable in more relaxed settings.