deviating from

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deviating from" is correct and usable in written English when describing how something has gone in a different direction than what was expected or originally planned.
For example: "Instead of following their original plan, the team decided to deviate from it due to unexpected complications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Deviating from it has benefits, too.

Independent

In fact, deviating from the herd was often punished severely.

The New Yorker

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

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Britain denies deviating from the proposals of the group.

The New York Times

But then he started deviating from the standard pathway.

The New Yorker

We apologize for deviating from our normal dates.

University of California, Berkeley

Should dealerships consider deviating from the standard (boring) layout?

Harvard Business Review

Deviating from the horizontal position enhances condensation heat transfer.

International Journal of Thermal Sciences

I'm not deviating from following my heart this time".

Independent

The ANC, he said, was deviating from its original principles.

The Economist

Huckabee has done very well among evangelical voters while loudly deviating from conservative economic orthodoxy.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always clarify the implications of "deviating from", whether positive or negative, to help your audience understand the consequences of this departure.

Common error

Avoid using "deviating from" without clearly establishing what the subject is deviating from. This omission can confuse the reader and weaken your message. Ensure the context is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deviating from" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to indicate a departure or divergence from a specified course, standard, or norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something going in a direction other than expected. Examples in Ludwig illustrate its usage across various subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Academia

27%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deviating from" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote a departure from a specified course, standard, or norm. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted in English writing. It is commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clearly specify the original standard to avoid ambiguity. While there can be alternatives like "departing from", "straying from", or "diverging from", choose the best phrase that suits the specific context to convey the intended meaning and level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departing from

Implies a formal or intentional divergence, often from a set standard or procedure. This suggests a more conscious decision to move away. Slightly higher formality.

straying from

Suggests a less deliberate divergence, often implying a loss of focus or unintended departure. Carries a slightly negative connotation.

diverging from

Highlights the act of splitting or branching off, implying the start of a new, separate direction. More formal and technical.

digressing from

Indicates a temporary departure from the main subject or course, often with the intention of returning. Used in more academic or formal contexts.

veering away from

Suggests a sudden or sharp change in direction, often due to external forces or influence. Emphasizes the abruptness of the change.

differing from

Highlights a distinct variance or dissimilarity, emphasizing the contrast between two things. More static and descriptive.

varying from

Implies a range of differences, suggesting that something fluctuates or changes within certain limits. Focuses on the spectrum of deviation.

wandering from

Suggests a gradual and undirected departure, often implying a lack of clear purpose or control. Conveys a sense of aimlessness.

deflecting from

Highlights the act of turning aside or preventing something from hitting a target. More specific and directional.

moving away from

Suggests a deliberate shift or transition, often in a more general sense. Lacks the specificity of a set path or standard.

FAQs

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

You can use "deviating from" to describe an action that departs from a standard, plan, or norm. For example, "The company risked "deviating from" its core values in pursuit of higher profits."

What are some alternatives to "deviating from"?

Some alternatives include "departing from", "straying from", or "diverging from", each with subtle differences in meaning.

Is it always negative to "deviate from" something?

Not necessarily. "Deviating from" a plan can be beneficial if it leads to better outcomes, although it often implies a risk or unexpected change. The value depends on the context.

What's the difference between "deviating from" and "differing from"?

"Deviating from" implies a change from an established course, while "differing from" simply indicates a difference between two things without necessarily implying a prior standard.