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Divergences Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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divergences

[dɪˈvɜːrdʒənsɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

in mathematics

The differences between two points, lines, or surfaces that are not parallel or divergent.

Synonyms

discrepancies, disparities, variances.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divergences

Used when indicating a path or opinion that moves away from a central point or established course.

  • There are significant divergences in their methodologies.
  • The divergences in their opinions led to an intense debate.
discrepancies

Best used when referring to a difference or inconsistency between two or more sets of data or facts that should be the same.

  • The audit revealed several discrepancies in the financial records.
  • There are discrepancies between the two reports that need investigation.
variances

Best suited for statistical or technical contexts, often when discussing measurable differences or changes over time.

  • The variances in temperature readings were analyzed thoroughly.
  • The financial variances from this quarter are concerning.
disparities

Used mainly to talk about differences that cause one group or thing to be unequal or disadvantaged compared to another, often in a social or economic context.

  • There are significant disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas.
  • The report highlights disparities in educational opportunities.

Examples of usage

  • The divergence between the two lines caused a significant error in the calculations.
  • The mathematician studied the divergences in the data to identify the source of the problem.
Context #2 | Noun

in opinions or beliefs

The act or process of differing in opinion or belief.

Synonyms

conflicts, disagreements, variances.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divergences

Used in formal or technical contexts to describe differences or deviations in opinions, paths, or measurements.

  • The research showed significant divergences in the data from different regions
disagreements

Commonly used in everyday situations to describe differences in opinion or perspective, generally less intense than 'conflicts'.

  • They had a disagreement about the best way to approach the project, but eventually found a compromise
variances

Typically used in statistical or formal contexts to describe quantitative differences.

  • The variances in test scores indicate a wide range of student abilities
conflicts

Refers to more intense or serious disagreements, often involving significant opposition or hostility, potentially with a negative connotation.

  • The conflicts between the two countries have led to years of unrest

Examples of usage

  • The political debate highlighted the divergences between the candidates.
  • Despite their close friendship, they often had divergences on certain issues.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, divergences can refer to a scenario where sequences or functions move away from each other as they progress.
  • The term 'divergent series' describes an infinite series that does not converge to a limit.
  • In vector calculus, divergence measures how much a vector field spreads out from a point.

Psychology

  • In psychology, cognitive divergences occur when individuals approach problems differently due to varied experiences.
  • These differences in thought processes lead to diverse solutions in creative and analytical tasks.
  • Understanding divergences in group dynamics can help in improving teamwork and creativity.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Divergences in cultural practices illustrate how societies evolve differently based on geography and historical events.
  • Art styles can show divergences that reflect differences in societal values and beliefs, leading to unique expressions.
  • Despite globalization, local cultures often maintain divergences that enrich global diversity.

Environmental Science

  • In ecology, divergences refer to the ways species evolve differently in separate environments.
  • Biodiversity often arises from divergences in evolutionary paths in isolated ecosystems.
  • Understanding these divergences is crucial for conservation efforts aimed at preserving unique species.

Origin of 'divergences'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'divergere,' meaning to turn aside or stray.
  • In the 19th century, it began to be used in scientific contexts to describe paths that separate.
  • The 'di-' prefix means 'two', reflecting the action of splitting into different directions.

The word 'divergences' is derived from the verb 'diverge', which comes from the Latin word 'divergere', meaning 'to separate'. The concept of divergences has been used in various fields such as mathematics, opinions, and beliefs to describe differences or discrepancies. The term has evolved to represent the idea of deviation or disagreement between two or more entities.

See also: diverge, divergence, divergent, diverging.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,691, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.