a startling deviation from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a startling deviation from" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a significant or surprising difference from an expected norm or standard. Example: "The results of the experiment were a startling deviation from the initial hypothesis, prompting further investigation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

But Isaacs, in a startling deviation from formula, lets Amy glorify the nuclear family.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

And here's the most startling deviation from the Hiaasen formula.

The New York Times - Books

Superconductivity is a startling departure from the properties of normal (i.e., nonsuperconducting) conductors of electricity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The first came via a startling announcement from Alistair Darling, the chancellor.

The Economist

There is a startling omission from their selection: 9/11.

The Guardian - Arts

The last decade has seen a startling shift from these origins.

BBC

Consider how, in both circumstances, being the physical embodiment of a deviation from a norm renders these women public objects.

The Guardian - Opinion

This was a startling statement, coming from a scholar of constitutional law.

The New York Times

What happened then was a sharp deviation from the norm.

The New York Times

They focused on showing that Officer Conway's tactics were a gross deviation from police standards.

The New York Times

"This is new, a real deviation from the average," said New York City's chief demographer, Joseph J. Salvo.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional impact of using the word "startling". If a less dramatic term is more appropriate for your writing, consider alternatives like "notable" or "significant".

Common error

Avoid using "a startling deviation from" when the difference is minor or inconsequential. Using such strong language for trivial changes can undermine your credibility and create a sense of hyperbole.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a startling deviation from" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It highlights a significant and unexpected departure from a norm or expected behavior, as evidenced by examples in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a startling deviation from" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to denote a surprising departure from an established norm or standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for formal and neutral contexts, appearing in news, encyclopedias, and scientific publications. While alternatives exist to express similar concepts, this phrase effectively emphasizes the unexpected and significant nature of the change. When employing this phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the norm being deviated from and avoid using it for minor or insignificant differences.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a surprising departure from

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the deviation.

an unexpected shift from

Highlights the sudden change or alteration.

a marked divergence from

Indicates a clear and noticeable difference.

a notable departure from

Stresses the significance of the deviation.

a significant variation from

Focuses on the extent of the difference.

a radical alteration to

Implies a fundamental or extreme change.

an abrupt turn from

Highlights the suddenness and unexpectedness of the change.

a dramatic contrast to

Emphasizes the stark difference compared to what is expected.

an unusual divergence from

Suggests that the deviation is not typical or common.

a conspicuous change from

Highlights the obviousness of the shift or alteration.

FAQs

What does "a startling deviation from" mean?

It signifies a surprising or unexpected departure from a norm, standard, or expected course of action.

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

You can say something like: "The company's new strategy represents "a startling deviation from" its traditional approach."

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

Alternatives include "a surprising departure from", "an unexpected shift from", or "a marked divergence from".

Is "a startling deviation from" formal or informal?

It is suitable for both formal and neutral contexts, often appearing in news, academic writing, and professional communications.