Diverge Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diverge

[dɪˈvɜːrdʒ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

in decision-making

To diverge means to move or extend in different directions from a common point. It can also refer to a difference of opinion or belief.

Synonyms

branch off, deviate, separate, split.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
diverge	Used when two things move in different directions from a common point, often in a figurative sense such as ideas, opinions, or paths. Our opinions on the topic began to diverge The road will diverge into two smaller paths
deviate	Implies a departure from an established course or norm. Often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting straying from what is expected or acceptable. He tends to deviate from the rules They deviated from their planned route and got lost
separate	Means to set or keep apart. It is used when describing both physical and abstract divisions, such as groups, items, or concepts. The teacher had to separate the two students to stop them from talking We decided to separate our tasks to work more efficiently
split	Denotes dividing into parts or groups, and can refer to both physical objects and ideas. It often implies a more permanent division. They decided to split the bill evenly The company plans to split into two independent units
branch off	Often used when describing a physical path that splits from a main route, like a road or a river. It can also apply to projects or efforts starting from a central point. Take the first road that branches off to the right The project will branch off into different sub-projects

Examples of usage

The group's opinions began to diverge as they discussed the issue further.
As we reached the fork in the road, the paths started to diverge.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in mathematics

In mathematics, to diverge means that a sequence or series does not have a finite limit.

Synonyms

deviate, stray, vary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
diverge	Use this word when talking about paths or opinions that start at the same point but then go in different directions. It is often used in formal or academic settings. The two roads diverge in the forest. Their views on the policy began to diverge.
vary	Use this word to describe things that are different from one another or change over time. It does not carry a negative connotation and is often used in neutral or positive contexts. The prices of vegetables vary throughout the year. The students' opinions varied on the subject.
deviate	This word is used when something moves away from an established course or standard. It can sometimes have a negative connotation, implying that the deviation is unexpected or unwanted. The train deviated from its scheduled route. His behavior deviated from the norm.
stray	Commonly used when someone or something moves away from where they are supposed to be. It is often used in more casual or colloquial contexts and can have a slightly negative implication. The dog strayed from the yard. He tends to stray from the main topic during discussions.

Examples of usage

The infinite series diverges as the terms do not approach a specific number.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

in nature

In nature, diverge can describe the process of species evolving and developing differences from a common ancestor.

Synonyms

differentiate, evolve, split.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
diverge	Used when two or more things start to go in different directions or when opinions start to differ. Their paths began to diverge after high school Opinions on this matter tend to diverge
split	Used when something breaks into parts or when people or groups separate. Can have a negative connotation when referring to conflicts or disagreements. They decided to split the profits equally The group split after a heated argument
evolve	Used to describe gradual development or change over time, often for living organisms or ideas. Species evolve over millions of years Their relationship has evolved into a strong friendship
differentiate	Used when showing or identifying differences between two or more things. It's important to differentiate between fact and opinion She can easily differentiate good coffee from bad

Examples of usage

Over time, the bird populations on the two isolated islands began to diverge in appearance and behavior.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

In calculus, functions can diverge, meaning they do not approach a fixed value as they go towards infinity.
The concept of divergence is essential in multivariable calculus, describing how much a vector field spreads out from a point.

Psychology

Thinking styles can diverge, leading to different problem-solving approaches and creativity among individuals.
Cognitive divergence is often seen as a potential for innovative ideas or unique perspectives in group discussions.

Literature

In storytelling, characters may diverge in their paths, representing different choices that shape their journey.
Divergent storylines can create tension or conflict, enhancing the narrative and keeping readers engaged.

Culture

Cultural practices can diverge based on geography, resulting in unique traditions and customs across different regions.
The concept of diverging paths is often used metaphorically in literature to represent decisions and life's journey.

Origin of 'diverge'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'divergere', which means 'to turn aside' or 'to bend away'.
It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century, originally with the sense of 'stray'.

The word 'diverge' comes from the Latin word 'divergere', which is a combination of 'di-' (apart) and 'vergere' (to turn). The concept of divergence has been used in various fields such as mathematics, biology, and decision-making processes. It reflects the idea of moving away from a common point or path, whether it's in physical directions, opinions, or evolutionary paths.

See also: divergence, divergences, divergent, diverging.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,404, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16401 lighten
16402 subsisting
16403 branding
16404 diverge
16405 cheerfulness
16406 signatory
16407 unquestionable
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