Words / B2

dy-VURJ/daɪˈvɜːdʒ/

To diverge is to go in different directions from one point, or to become unlike: paths diverge; figures diverge. Converge is the opposite. Differ is a close twin for opinions. Official and leaked figures diverged. Do not mix with diverse (varied; already in the dictionary).

Meaning

To go in different directions from the same point; also to become unlike.

Examples

• “Official and leaked figures began to diverge in March.”
• “The two mark schemes diverge on AO3, which is the exam-board sense.”

Good to know

diverge from; paths / opinions / figures diverge. Opposite: converge. Close: differ. Mix-up: diverse / divert. Data journalism and maps.

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