Diverge: meaning, definitions and examples

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.