deviated from the norm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deviated from the norm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, behavior, or outcome that is different from what is typically expected or considered standard. Example: "The artist's latest work deviated from the norm, showcasing a unique style that challenged traditional conventions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Indeed, owners who deviated from the norm by recruiting black players finished significantly higher than those who didn't, after accounting for the wage bill.

The Times

Like so many others who deviated from the norm, I learned much more from exploring my passions than I ever did from a structured school setting.

The Washington Post

But Reyes said doctors told him the levels had been normal and consistent in previous years and only recently deviated from the norm.

The New York Times - Sports

Other research has established some correlation between abnormally large brain size and autism; the April paper reported that the brain volume of the autistic girls deviated from the norm more than the volume of the autistic boys.

The New York Times - Magazine

If not, it is diagnostic of a problem with the process, as the expected relative peak areas have deviated from the norm.

Chemistry Central Journal

@Oobahs.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Intra and inter day results were found very close to those of the corresponding freshly prepared nominal concentration, but inter day results are slightly more deviated from the norms.

International Journal of Food Contamination

But it's fair to wonder whether Americans would even consider a male presidential candidate whose behavior significantly deviated from the norms of conventional masculinity.

Vice

But it's fair to wonder whether Americans would even consider a male presidential candidate whose behaviour significantly deviated from the norms of conventional masculinity.

Vice

Not only were men permitted to deviate from the norm, but the deviation itself became the norm.

The New York Times - Style

Deviating from the norm is fine, unless everyone finds out.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deviated from the norm", ensure the context clearly establishes what the norm is, providing a clear point of reference for the deviation. This enhances clarity and prevents ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "deviated from the norm" when a minor variation is present. Reserve the phrase for instances where the departure from what is expected is substantial or noteworthy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deviated from the norm" functions as a descriptive expression, typically used to indicate that something has differed or departed from what is considered standard, typical, or expected. It is often used to highlight a variation or divergence from established patterns, behaviors, or conditions. Ludwig AI validates this use in numerous contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "deviated from the norm" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a departure from what is considered typical or standard. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid. Its usage spans various contexts, including news, science, and general discourse, with a neutral to formal register. It is important to provide clear context when using this phrase to ensure the point of reference is well-established. While it indicates a difference, whether that difference is positive or negative depends on the context in which it is used. Several alternative phrases can be used to express similar meanings, like "differed from the standard" and "departed from convention".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differed from the standard

Emphasizes a departure from an established benchmark or requirement.

varied from the usual

Highlights a change from what is commonly expected or typical.

diverged from the average

Indicates a movement away from the statistical center or common value.

departed from convention

Stresses a break from established social or cultural practices.

strayed from the path

Suggests a deviation from a prescribed or expected course of action.

bucked the trend

Implies a resistance to or movement against a prevailing direction or pattern.

broke with tradition

Highlights a deliberate rejection of established customs or practices.

transgressed the bounds

Focuses on exceeding accepted limits or boundaries.

veered off course

Describes a shift away from a planned or intended direction.

stood apart from the crowd

Indicates a noticeable difference or uniqueness compared to others.

FAQs

What does "deviated from the norm" mean?

The phrase "deviated from the norm" means something has moved away or strayed from what is considered typical, standard, or expected. It implies a departure from usual behavior, patterns, or conditions.

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

You can use "deviated from the norm" to describe any situation where something differs from the usual or expected. For example: "The company's profits "differed from the standard" this quarter due to unexpected market changes."

What are some alternatives to "deviated from the norm"?

Alternatives include "varied from the usual", "differed from the standard", or "departed from convention", depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative when something "deviated from the norm"?

Not necessarily. Whether it's positive or negative depends on the context. Deviating from the norm could lead to innovation and progress, or it could result in problems if the norm is there for a good reason.