departure from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "departure from" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a change or deviation from a previous state, condition, or norm. Example: "The new policy represents a significant departure from our traditional practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

This is a departure from precedent.

The New Yorker

A departure from it is undemocratic.

The Economist

That view is a departure from I.M.F.

The New York Times

That is a departure from last season.

The New York Times - Sports

This is a departure from the past.

The New York Times

Toksvig recently announced her departure from broadcasting.

Independent

And my departure from where?

The Guardian

And his departure from Brooklyn?

The Guardian - Film

A departure from international polity.

The Guardian - Opinion

"That was a departure from other relationships".

The New York Times - Style

The upshot was Dio's departure from Sabbath.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "departure from", ensure the context clearly defines what is being departed from. For example, specify whether it's a "departure from" a norm, tradition, or established procedure.

Common error

Avoid using "departure from" without clearly indicating the original standard or practice. Saying "it's a departure" is less effective than specifying what it deviates from: "It's a departure from established protocol."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "departure from" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, indicating a deviation or divergence from something previously established. As shown by Ludwig, this phrase is frequently utilized to highlight differences between current and past practices or states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

37%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "departure from" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to signify a deviation or divergence from an established norm, tradition, or practice. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media and Scientific contexts, reflecting its utility in formal and neutral registers. While alternatives like "deviation from" exist, "departure from" often implies a more intentional or significant shift. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what is being departed from to avoid vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deviation from

Indicates a divergence or straying from a standard, principle, or norm.

deviation

Shorter form of deviation from, generally used for minor divergences.

divergence from

Suggests a branching off or difference in direction or opinion.

abandonment of

Emphasizes a complete relinquishing or forsaking of something.

shift away from

Highlights a change in focus or direction.

break with

Implies a deliberate disruption or separation from a tradition or relationship.

variation from

Highlights the fact that something differs from the normal order.

reversal of

It means a decision is changed so that it is the opposite of what it was.

infringement of

Breaks of some kind of agreement, rule or law.

secession from

Specifically refers to formally withdrawing from an organization or alliance.

FAQs

How can I use "departure from" in a sentence?

You can use "departure from" to indicate a deviation from a norm, tradition, or previous state. For example, "This new policy represents a significant departure from our traditional practices."

What's a good alternative for "departure from"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "deviation from", "divergence from", or "break with".

Is it better to say "departure from" or "deviation from"?

Both "departure from" and "deviation from" are correct, but "departure" often implies a more intentional or significant change, whereas "deviation" can suggest a slight or unintentional divergence.

When should I use "departure from" instead of "exit from"?

"Departure from" is used for abstract concepts such as policies or traditions, indicating a change or deviation. "Exit from" refers to a physical or literal leaving of a place or organization.