allow for deviation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allow for deviation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing flexibility or the acceptance of variations from a standard or expected outcome. Example: "In our project plan, we need to allow for deviation in timelines to accommodate unforeseen circumstances."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But it revised its rules in 2006 to allow for deviation in "a rare and extraordinary circumstance" after complaints over the exclusion of producers of one of that year's nominees, Little Miss Sunshine.

The Guardian - Film

Such policies do allow for deviation from borrowing targets if they are due to the weakness of the economy, our correspondent says.

BBC

This could allow for deviation in the resulting calculated position to be reduced by finding the convergence between the results of each execution of the calculations.

Human-centric Computing and Information Sciences

To accommodate the observed nucleotide frequencies π i we have to allow for deviation from those ratios.

BMC Genomics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Although the ferries have regular routes, the antennas on both ship and shore have to be placed to allow for deviations due to tides, ship rotation, weather and boat traffic.

The New York Times - Tech

Second, many have inserted into end-result principles clauses that allow for deviations from the prescribed end-result provided that these deviations do not reflect luck.

SEP

Rather than simply using cost shares to compute conventional Solow residuals, the reason for adopting LP's (2003) approach is that, while we allow for deviations of the one-to-one rate of substitution among workers, the payrolls reported by ESEE do not distinguish between wages paid by type of contract (PC and TC).

SERIEs

For M2a, a variable model, these two classes are used with an additional class (K = 3) where ω is freely estimated to allow for deviations from neutrality.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

The majority of statistical methods can be classified as burden tests, which assume the same direction of effect on the trait of all rare variants, dispersion tests, which allow for deviations from this unidirectional assumption, or a combination of the two approaches.

Briefings in Functional Genomics

There is one occasion in the biblical story that allows for deviation from that aesthetic norm - the Annunciation.

Huffington Post

Semistructured questionnaires formed the basis of interviews; this provided a degree of structure and standardisation in questioning while allowing for deviation from the 'script'script

BMJ Open

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting project plans or outlining procedures, use "allow for deviation" to clearly indicate that some flexibility is expected and acceptable. This sets realistic expectations and prevents rigid adherence to potentially unattainable standards.

Common error

Avoid using "allow for deviation" as a mere formality without genuinely preparing for possible changes. Ensure that systems and strategies are in place to handle these anticipated deviations effectively. Always plan for the likely deviations to protect the success of your project or plan.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allow for deviation" functions as a verb phrase, indicating the act of making provisions or accommodations for potential variations or irregularities. It is often used to express flexibility within a defined plan or set of rules. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "allow for deviation" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express the accommodation of variations or exceptions. As indicated by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for written English and implies flexibility. While predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it's essential to use this phrase thoughtfully, ensuring actual preparation for change rather than merely stating an intention. Alternatives like "permit variation" or "accommodate differences" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Remember that while the phrase suggests flexibility, proper planning and strategies are still needed to effectively manage these deviations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permit variation

Focuses on explicitly granting permission for changes.

accommodate differences

Highlights the act of making adjustments to include variations.

consider exceptions

Emphasizes the act of taking unusual cases into account.

account for variations

Stresses the importance of including changes within the plan.

make allowances for

Focuses on the act of granting exceptions, usually for compassionate reasons.

provide leeway for

Emphasizes the availability of extra space or flexibility.

tolerate discrepancies

Concentrates on accepting minor differences or inconsistencies.

leave room for error

Highlights the anticipation of mistakes and planning for their occurrence.

plan for contingencies

Centers on anticipating unforeseen events and preparing accordingly.

factor in irregularities

Stresses the need to include unusual items within a given calculation.

FAQs

How can I use "allow for deviation" in a sentence?

You can use "allow for deviation" when you want to express that some flexibility or variation is expected or permitted in a plan, rule, or process. For example, "The budget should "allow for deviation" in project costs due to unforeseen circumstances."

What are some alternatives to "allow for deviation"?

Some alternatives to "allow for deviation" include "permit variation", "accommodate differences", or "consider exceptions". The best alternative will depend on the specific context.

Is it better to say "allow for deviation" or "allow deviations"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but "allow for deviation" is more commonly used and generally sounds more natural. "Allow deviations" is also acceptable, but might be perceived as slightly less idiomatic.

What does it mean to "allow for" something?

To "allow for" something means to take it into consideration or make provision for it. It suggests anticipating a particular circumstance and being prepared to accommodate it. For example, "We need to "allow for traffic" when planning our travel time."