deviate from the course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deviate from the course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a change in direction or departure from a planned path or strategy. Example: "If we deviate from the course we set, we may not achieve our goals on time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Nadella gave little indication today that he would drastically deviate from the course that Ballmer charted when he radically reorganized Microsoft and bought Nokia's phone business last year.

The New Yorker

Jones can be the world's most helpful man to ambitious players who behave as he tells them to; he can also make things difficult for those who deviate from the course he has laid clown for them.

The New Yorker

"When you've got a team which has still got some development to do, we'll not panic, lose our nerve, or deviate from the course we're on," Lancaster said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Prosecutors and the cruise line that owns the ship have blamed Captain Schettino for the wreck, saying he deviated from the course plotted in advance.

The New York Times

However, Cristiano de Musso, a cruise company spokesman, said the ship had not deviated from the course it follows "52 times a year".

The New York Times

Our rattled establishment of experts in the State Department and the elite media immediately put out word that Bush had deviated from the course they expected only because of some last-minute proof of Arafat's personal sponsorship of a suicide bombing.

The New York Times

Deviating from the course and getting out of formation was sure suicide because German fighter planes were always lurking in the clouds, ready to pick off a random plane.

Huffington Post

On days with particularly strong and widespread lift pilots can attain high average speeds by alternating periods of fast flight with pull-ups, merely slowing down in areas of lift without deviating from the course.

Wikipedia

During the test, a trained observer ensured that the participant neither deviated from the course nor was in any way prevented from walking at his or her chosen pace.

Plosone

An altered pathway is viewed as one which, due to changes in the functioning of one or several genes, deviates from the course it would normally have.

Database : the journal of biological databases and curation

Its layered definitions spoke directly to my life and also struck a poetic chord: to wander from the proper path, to deviate from the direct course, to be lost, to become wild, to be without a mother or father, to be without a home, to move about aimlessly in search of something, to diverge or digress.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deviate from the course", ensure it's clear what the original "course" is. Provide context to avoid ambiguity about what is being departed from.

Common error

Avoid limiting "deviate from the course" to physical journeys. It can apply to strategies, plans, or even expected behaviors. Consider the broader implications of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deviate from the course" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It indicates an action of moving away from a predetermined path, plan, or behavior, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "deviate from the course" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that signifies departing from a set path, plan, or behavior. Though moderately frequent, with a "Uncommon" rating based on Ludwig's analysis, it appears across various contexts, notably News & Media and Science. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples illustrating its use. When employing this phrase, clarity regarding the original "course" is crucial to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Stray from the path

Implies a wandering or unintentional departure from a designated route or plan.

Diverge from the plan

Focuses on a departure from a structured plan or set of expectations.

Depart from the strategy

Emphasizes a change in a strategic approach or long-term goal.

Veer off course

Suggests a sudden or sharp alteration in direction, often unexpectedly.

Wander from the original intent

Highlights a gradual shift away from the initial purpose or aim.

Digress from the subject

Indicates a temporary departure from the main topic or point of discussion.

Deflect from the goal

Points to a shift in focus away from a specific target or objective.

Turn aside from the intention

Stresses a deliberate alteration of a previously stated intention or purpose.

Deflect from the original purpose

Indicates a shift in focus away from the initial purpose or aim.

Shift from the direction

Highlights a definite change from the intended direction.

FAQs

What does "deviate from the course" mean?

The phrase "deviate from the course" means to stray or depart from a planned or intended route, strategy, or behavior.

How can I use "deviate from the course" in a sentence?

You can use "deviate from the course" in sentences like, "The captain was blamed for the wreck because he "deviated from the course" plotted in advance" or "We will not panic, lose our nerve, or "deviate from the course" we're on."

What are some alternatives to "deviate from the course"?

Alternatives to "deviate from the course" include "stray from the path", "diverge from the plan", or "veer off course", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "deviate from the course" or "stray from the course"?

Both "deviate from the course" and "stray from the course" are valid, but "deviate" often implies a more intentional or significant departure, while "stray" can suggest a more accidental or minor wandering. Choose the word that best fits the intended meaning.