1
Depart from a pattern
Cease to follow an expected trend or model.
Example
The later measurements diverge from the forecast.
diverge from
/daɪˈvɜːdʒ frɒm/ · dye-VURJ fromdeparture phrase
Depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
Use diverge from to signal this exact relationship between ideas: depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
What diverge from Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Develop differently
Move along a different historical or biological path.
Example
The two traditions diverged from a shared source.
3
Deviate from a standard
Differ from an established practice or text.
Example
This edition diverges from the manuscript in several passages.
Use diverge from Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
The later measurements diverge from the forecast.
The two traditions diverged from a shared source.
This edition diverges from the manuscript in several passages.
Precision Matters
Diverge from overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
diverge from
vs.Signals depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
correspond to
Means match, align with, or have a direct relationship to something.
diverge from
vs.Signals depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
build on
Means use an existing idea, result, or achievement as a basis for further development.
diverge from
vs.Signals depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
distinct from
Means clearly separate or different in identity, character, or category.
diverge from
vs.Signals depart from, develop differently from, or become less similar to a reference point.
be incompatible with
Means be unable to coexist, agree, or function together.
Test diverge from in Context
The later designs increasingly depart from the earlier reference point.
1
The earliest copies closely follow the original design, but later versions begin to ___ it.