Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
deviation from plan
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesUSAGE SUMMARY
The phrase "deviation from plan" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where there is a discussion about changes or differences from an established plan or strategy. Example: "The project faced a significant deviation from plan, which led to delays in the timeline."
✓ Grammatically correct
Science
News & Media
Formal & Business
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
2 human-written examples
Institutionally, a deviation from plan is an irregularity, but competitively it is creative, innovative, exploratory work.
Because energy stock prices already reflect a consensus expectation of lower oil prices, a slight deviation from plan could lead to a respectable pop in their stock prices.
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
58 human-written examples
In other words, if you think you're entitled to be simply and univocally happy, any deviation from planned perfection may result in grievous complaints; those who never had much hope for anything may express contentment with a seemingly bad lot.
News & Media
The EQM assists project managers to: solicit relevant data for monitoring cancer behavior intervention; identify deviation from planned deliverables; and feedback monitoring findings.
Science
Hemodynamics, landing precision (deviation from planned placement site), duration of procedure, renal function, neurocognitive function, and incidence of endoleaks and paraplegia/hemiplegia were compared.
The MES is designed for project managers to: a) solicit minimum dataset for project M&E; b) track aggregate and individual deviation from planned objectives and deliverables; c) feedback M&E findings.
Science
Management can then respond to substantial deviations from plan, either by taking corrective action or, if outside conditions differ from those predicted or assumed in the plans, by preparing revised plans.
Encyclopedias
There were two deviations from plan.
Science
Line service large disruptions are commonplace in rapid transit systems with large deviations from planned operations.
Incidents and rolling stock breakdowns are commonplace in rapid transit rail systems and may disrupt the system performance imposing deviations from planned operations.
The sample size was increased from 30 to 36 patients per group to accommodate for nonresponse, loss to follow-up, and other deviations from planned study conditions.
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When discussing a "deviation from plan", clearly specify the original plan and the nature of the deviation. Provide context to explain why the deviation occurred and its potential impact.
Common error
Avoid vague references to a "deviation from plan" without specifying what the original plan was. Always provide enough detail so the reader understands what was expected and how the actual outcome differed.
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "deviation from plan" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes an instance where there is a divergence or departure from an originally intended course of action. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable.
Frequent in
Science
35%
News & Media
33%
Formal & Business
32%
Less common in
Encyclopedias
0%
Wiki
0%
Reference
0%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
The phrase "deviation from plan" is a versatile noun phrase used to describe instances where actions or outcomes differ from an established plan. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely applicable. While it appears most frequently in scientific, news, and business contexts, understanding its nuances and potential alternatives, such as "departure from the plan" or "divergence from the plan", can enhance your writing. Remember to provide specific details about the original plan and the nature of the "deviation from plan" to ensure clarity and avoid vagueness.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
departure from the plan
Replaces "deviation" with "departure", indicating a move away from the original plan.
divergence from the plan
Uses "divergence" to suggest a branching off or separation from the planned course.
variation from the plan
Emphasizes a slight change or difference from the original plan.
departure from strategy
Substitutes "plan" with "strategy", implying a shift in overall approach.
change to the plan
A simpler, more direct way to express an alteration to the plan.
alteration of the plan
Uses "alteration" to highlight a modification or adjustment to the plan.
modification to the plan
Similar to "alteration", but may suggest a more controlled or deliberate change.
shift in the plan
Indicates a change in direction or emphasis within the plan.
amendment to the plan
Highlights a formal or official change made to the plan.
adjustment to the plan
Focuses on fine-tuning or correcting the plan to improve its effectiveness.
FAQs
How can I use "deviation from plan" in a sentence?
You can use "deviation from plan" to describe instances where actions or results differ from an established plan. For example, "The project experienced a significant "deviation from plan" due to unforeseen circumstances."
What can I say instead of "deviation from plan"?
Alternatives include "departure from the plan", "divergence from the plan", or "variation from the plan", depending on the specific context and the degree of change.
Is it always negative to have a deviation from plan?
Not necessarily. While a "deviation from plan" can indicate problems or failures, it can also lead to unexpected positive outcomes or innovations. It depends on the context and the nature of the "deviation from plan".
What's the difference between "deviation from plan" and "change of plan"?
"Deviation from plan" usually implies an unintended or unplanned difference from the original plan, whereas "change of plan" suggests a deliberate decision to alter the plan. A "change of plan" is a conscious choice, while a "deviation from plan" may occur due to unforeseen circumstances.
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
83%
Authority and reliability
4.1/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested