Words / C1

deev-ee-AYSHUN/ˌdiːviˈeɪʃn/

A deviation is a departure from a usual path, rule, or average: deviation from the protocol, standard deviation (statistics). Deviate is the verb (already in the dictionary). Difference is everyday and weaker; exception is allowed untypical. Deviant as a noun/adjective can sound moralising — avoid it in neutral academic prose. Do not write deviation for a planned variant that is the new rule.

Meaning

A departure from a usual path, rule, or average.

Examples

• “Any deviation from the protocol must be recorded.”
• “Any deviation from the lab protocol must be logged, even a helpful one.”
• “Standard deviation measures spread; it is not a moral judgement.”

Good to know

A departure from the usual path/rule/average. Verb: deviate. Stats: standard deviation. Avoid moralising deviant in essays.

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