diverged

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "diverged" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where two or more things have separated or taken different paths, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "As the discussion progressed, our opinions began to diverge, leading to a lively debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Religious groups have also diverged, with Shias calling for Pakistan to stay out but some radical Sunnis, including the suspected terrorist leader Hafiz Saeed, staging demonstrations to show solidarity with Saudi Arabia.

The Guardian

As Gordon Brown's special adviser, he says, his opinions became clearer; he realised they diverged from the New Labour norm.

The Guardian

In both cases, when the views of retail investors diverged sharply, activity increased.

The Economist

Encouraged by devolution under Tony Blair and cash from Westminster, Scottish social policies have diverged from English ones.

The Economist

Instead, results have diverged widely, taking analysts by surprise on both sides.

The Economist

Thereafter, Spain's share of top foreign players rose sharply and diverged from that in Italy, which had followed a similar trend.

The Economist

All 12 are relatively short stretches of DNA, and eight of them are in places already established as carrying genes for wing colour and pattern, or mate recognition, or both.The third species, which diverged from the ancestral stock 1.5m years ago, shows more differences.

The Economist

Sovereign-bond yields within the euro area have diverged.

The Economist

The blue line is consistently below the red line, the gap has only diverged further since the Great Recession.

The Economist

Between 2009 and 2011, they managed to reduce their primary budget deficits from 4.2% to 1.2% of GDP.But as figures from the IMF's most recent Fiscal Monitor Report released on October 9th detail, trends in fiscal consolidation in the developed and developing worlds have diverged since 2011.

The Economist

That convergence would make the members better able to cope with a single monetary policy and the loss of exchange-rate flexibility.But instead of converging, in crucial ways northern and southern Europe (with Ireland as an honorary member of the south) diverged.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "diverged" when you want to emphasize the act of moving in different directions from a common point or shared path. It's suitable for describing ideas, trends, or even physical routes.

Common error

Be careful not to confuse "diverged" with "converged". "Diverged" means to move apart, while "converged" means to come together. Using the wrong word can completely change the meaning of your sentence.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "diverged" is that of a verb in the past tense. It describes an action that occurred in the past, where something separated or moved in different directions. As shown in Ludwig, the verb is commonly used to describe the evolution of trends, opinions or physical routes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "diverged" is a versatile verb that aptly describes separation or deviation, and is used to describe different evolutionary patterns or trends. Ludwig AI confirms that this verb is grammatically sound and frequently appears in a variety of contexts, but primarily in news media. When writing, remember that while alternatives like "deviated" or "differed" exist, "diverged" specifically emphasizes moving apart from a common point. Ensure not to confuse ""diverged"" with "converged", which expresses the opposite action of coming together.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

separated

A general term for becoming distinct or physically divided

deviated

This term emphasizes a departure from a standard or expected course, similar to "diverged".

differed

This term highlights a difference in opinion or characteristics, often used in comparative contexts.

split apart

This alternative suggests a more forceful or distinct separation than "diverged".

went separate ways

Similar to "parted ways", but less formal and highlights individual paths

parted ways

This phrase is often used to describe a separation in relationships or collaborations, implying a friendly or neutral end.

varied

This suggests a range of differences, where entities do not converge.

branched off

This alternative is frequently used in the context of evolutionary biology or organizational structures, suggesting a new, distinct path.

forked

Similar to "branched off" in implying a split in direction or path

strayed

This implies a wandering or unintentional deviation, carrying a slightly negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "diverged" in a sentence?

Use "diverged" to indicate a separation or difference in paths, opinions, or trends. For example, "Their opinions "diverged" on the matter of fiscal policy."

What's the difference between "diverged" and "deviated"?

"Diverged" typically implies moving in different directions from a common point, while "deviated" suggests straying from a specific path or standard. You might say "The road "diverged" into two paths" or "The company "deviated" from its original business plan."

What are some synonyms for "diverged"?

Some synonyms for "diverged" include "split apart", "deviated", "parted ways", and "differed". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "the paths diverged"?

Yes, it is perfectly correct. This usage is common when describing physical paths or metaphorical paths like career choices or strategic directions.