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Deviation

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The action or process of departing from an established course or norm.
2. A difference or variation from a standard, rule, or expectation.
3. In statistics, a measure of how far a set of values or data points deviate from the average.

History and Origin

The word “deviation” comes from the Latin deviatio, meaning “a turning away” or “a wandering,” derived from deviare (to turn aside or go astray). The term was first used in English in the 14th century to describe a departure from a particular path or course. Over time, its meaning expanded to encompass both physical and abstract deviations, such as deviations from social norms or statistical averages.

Detailed Explanation

“Deviation” refers to a departure from a set standard, rule, or norm. It can describe both physical changes, such as a vehicle veering off course, and abstract ones, such as behavior that does not conform to societal expectations. In various fields, the term has specialized meanings. For instance, in statistics, deviation is the difference between a data point and the mean, which helps to understand the spread or variation of data. Deviation can also refer to changes in trends, behaviors, or patterns that differ from what is typical or expected.

Example Sentences

1. The car’s deviation from the road caused a minor accident.
2. The project faced deviations from the original plan due to unforeseen circumstances.
3. The study found a significant deviation in the test results from the expected average.
4. The manager was concerned about the deviation from company policy in the recent actions.
5. His behavior showed a deviation from the usual pattern of behavior for someone in his position.
6. The deviation in the weather forecast made it difficult for the event organizers to plan.
7. The engineer noted that the building’s structure had a slight deviation from the approved blueprints.
8. The deviation from tradition in the wedding ceremony made it unique and memorable.
9. The statistical analysis revealed that the deviation of the data points was higher than expected.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Departure – The act of moving away from a standard or expected direction.
2. Variation – A difference or change from a norm or standard.
3. Anomaly – A deviation from what is normal or expected, often unusual or irregular.
4. Divergence – The act or process of moving in different directions from a common point.
5. Abnormality – A condition or instance that deviates from what is normal or standard.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Discrepancy – A lack of compatibility or consistency between two or more facts, figures, or views.
2. Fluctuation – A variation or change in a pattern, often within a specific range.
3. Deviation curve – In statistics, a graphical representation of how data points deviate from the mean.
4. Irregularity – The quality or condition of being irregular, uneven, or abnormal.
5. Outlier – A data point or observation that lies outside the general trend or pattern.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Variation – The extent to which something differs from the norm or expectation.
2. Deflection – A deviation, especially in the direction of an object or force.
3. Breach – A deviation from a law, contract, or ethical standard.
4. Digression – A temporary departure from the main subject or course of action.
5. Displacement – A change or deviation from a normal position or situation.

Antonyms

1. Conformance
2. Standardization
3. Consistency
4. Alignment
5. Regulation