verb · C1

Deviate

DEEV-ee-ayt/ˈdiːvieɪt/

To deviate is to go in a different direction from the usual or expected path: deviate from the instructions, deviate from the mean (statistics). Depart from is a close formal cousin; stray and go off-piste are more informal. Deviation is the noun. The pattern is deviate from. In speech, leave the path / not follow is enough. Neutral in science; in rules, it can sound like a fault. Do not use it for a planned alternative route you announced.

Meaning

To go in a different direction from the usual or expected path (deviate from).

Examples

“Do not deviate from the exam instructions.”
“Do not deviate from the exam rubric; the extra paragraph will not be marked.”
“Results that deviate from the mean need a second look, not a shrug.”

Good to know

deviate from + path/rule. Everyday: leave the expected path. Noun: deviation. Close: depart from. Science: from the mean. Can imply a fault.

Near in meaning

depart from

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