deviation from the standard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deviation from the standard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing differences or departures from established norms or criteria. Example: "The report highlighted a significant deviation from the standard procedures that could impact the project's outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

"These instances of negligence, taken together, evince an extreme deviation from the standard of care and a conscious disregard of known risks," he wrote.

The Guardian

One other well-explored category of deviation from the standard framework simply drops the assumption that people are fully informed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The Court does not find this was merely an error of medical judgment," the judge wrote, "but rather deviation from the standard of care".

The New York Times

To convict someone of second-degree manslaughter in the state of New York, the prosecution has to prove that he recklessly caused the death of the victim — "recklessly" being defined as creating a risk so substantial that disregarding it constitutes "a gross deviation from the standard of conduct that a reasonable person would observe" — and that he had no justification.

The New Yorker

The critics, far from praising novelty of effects, condemned deviation from the standard poetic diction which was established by the Kokinshū and consisted of some 2,000 words and insisted on absolute adherence to the poetic codes first formulated in the 10th century.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The decision to visit the beach and allow the students to enter the ocean may not have been wise, but the evidence does not establish that it was a gross deviation from the standard of conduct that a reasonable person would have observed".

The New York Times

His statement said that he then eliminated second-degree manslaughter, which would require proof of reckless behavior, and criminally negligent homicide, which would require proof of behavior that "constitutes a gross deviation from the standard of care that a reasonable person would observe in the situation".

The New York Times

The severity of the fault depends upon the amount of deviation from the standard.

Fashion and Textiles

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Nor would it require a sudden, major deviation from the standards of free speech most of the developed world respects.

TechCrunch

But these days, there are unexpected deviations from the standard paint store color wheel.

The New York Times

Now, Mr. Cain said, the easiest way for Republicans to "stay competitive is to take deviations from the standard G.O.P. lines".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "deviation from the standard", clearly specify what the "standard" is to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "there was a deviation from the standard", specify "there was a deviation from the standard protocol as outlined in section 3.2".

Common error

Avoid using "deviation from the standard" without a clear reference point. Ensure your audience understands which established norm or criterion is being referenced to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deviation from the standard" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies instances where there is a difference or departure from established norms, practices, or expectations, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

52%

News & Media

32%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deviation from the standard" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe instances where something differs from an established norm or expectation. Ludwig confirms its usability and highlights its role in identifying irregularities or exceptions across various contexts. It is frequently employed in science, news, and encyclopedic content, exhibiting a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, it's crucial to clearly define the "standard" to prevent ambiguity. Alternatives include "departure from the norm" and "variance from the average", depending on the specific nuances you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

departure from the norm

Replaces "deviation" with "departure" and "standard" with "norm", focusing on general expectations.

variance from the average

Substitutes "deviation" with "variance" and "standard" with "average", emphasizing a statistical difference.

departure from the usual

Emphasizes a departure from what is commonly practiced or observed.

divergence from the typical

Focuses on the act of diverging or moving away from what is considered typical.

variation from the established

Highlights that there is a variation from something that is already established.

nonconformity to the norm

Indicates a lack of conformity or agreement with established norms or standards.

irregularity in the pattern

Emphasizes an unexpected irregularity or break in a recurring pattern.

discrepancy with the baseline

Highlights a discrepancy with the established reference point or baseline.

aberration from the conventional

Emphasizes the unusual or atypical nature of the deviation from what is conventional.

irregularity compared to the usual

This alternative emphasizes an abnormality when compared with what is usual.

FAQs

How can I use "deviation from the standard" in a sentence?

You can use "deviation from the standard" to describe instances where something differs from established norms or expectations. For example: "The study identified a significant "deviation from the standard" medical procedure in rural hospitals".

What are some alternatives to "deviation from the standard"?

Alternatives include "departure from the norm", "variance from the average", or "divergence from the typical", depending on the specific context.

Is "deviation from the standard" formal or informal language?

"Deviation from the standard" is considered neutral to formal language and is suitable for academic, professional, and news contexts. More informal contexts might use simpler terms like "different from usual".

What's the difference between "deviation from the standard" and "departure from the standard"?

While both phrases are similar, ""deviation from the standard"" often implies a measurable or quantifiable difference, whereas "departure from the standard" can suggest a more general divergence or change.