Cool MateDeviate
UK /["/ˈdiːvieɪt/","/ˈdiːvieɪts/","/ˈdiːvieɪtɪd/","/ˈdiːvieɪtɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈdiːvieɪt/","/ˈdiːvieɪts/","/ˈdiːvieɪtɪd/","/ˈdiːvieɪtɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to be different from something; to do something in a different way from what is usual or expected
In simple words: To change from the usual path or way of doing something
Examples
- The bus had to deviate from its usual route because of a road closure.
- He never deviated from his original plan.
Usage notes
Use 'deviate' when discussing shifts from expected behavior or plans. It's suitable in both formal and informal settings but is more commonly found in academic or technical contexts.
Grammar pattern
deviate + from / to
Memory hint
Think of a car 'deviating' from a road onto a new path.
Collocations
- considerably
- significantly
- substantially
- by
- from
Synonyms
- diverge
- stray
- depart
- digress
- vary
Antonyms
- conform
- adhere
- follow
Common mistakes
- Using 'deviate to' instead of 'deviate from' when noting the original path
- Confusing 'deviate' with 'deviate' as a noun
- Mixing up its formal tone with slang expressions