Diverging Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diverging

[dɪˈvɜːrdʒɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

mathematics

Tending to be or become different or develop in different directions.

Synonyms

deviating, different, disparate, varying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
diverging	Used when two or more things split off from a common point, often in a physical or metaphorical sense. The roads are diverging at the old oak tree. Their interests started diverging after high school.
different	Most commonly used to compare two or more things that are not the same. Her approach is different from mine. They have different opinions about the project.
varying	Indicates fluctuations or changes in degree, size, amount, or condition. The weather has been varying throughout the week. There are varying levels of difficulty in the game.
deviating	Implies moving away from a standard or norm, often carrying a slightly negative connotation. His behavior was deviating from the acceptable standards. The experiment's results were deviating from the expected outcomes.
disparate	Highlights things that are fundamentally distinct or entirely unlike each other, often used in formal contexts. The conference brought together people with disparate views. The two species are so disparate that they cannot interbreed.

Examples of usage

The two lines are diverging as they extend outward from the common point.
Over time, the results of the experiment are diverging, indicating a need for further investigation.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

general

Separate from another route, especially a main one, and go in a different direction.

Synonyms

branch off, deviate, separate, split.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
diverging	Used when two or more things move or extend in different directions from a common point. The paths are diverging, leading to different parts of the forest. Their opinions on the matter are slowly diverging as more information comes to light.
deviate	Often implies a movement away from an established course or norm, sometimes with a negative connotation. Make sure not to deviate from the instructions provided by your supervisor. She tends to deviate from standard practices, which can sometimes cause issues.
branch off	Typically used to describe directions or paths that move away from a main route. We need to branch off from the highway to get to the small village. The project plan will branch off into several smaller tasks.
split	Implies dividing something into parts, sometimes suggesting conflict or a forced break. The company will split into two independent entities by next year. They decided to split the profits equally among the team members.
separate	Indicates moving or being apart from something else, often used in a physical or emotional sense. They decided to separate after many years of marriage. Separate the recyclables from the regular trash.

Examples of usage

After the accident, traffic was diverging onto side roads to avoid the congestion.
The river diverges into two branches further downstream.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

In math, diverging refers to a series that does not settle on a single number but spreads out instead.
Divergent series can mean the sums keep growing larger and larger without limit.
The concept of divergence is used in calculus, helping to analyze functions that may change direction.

Literature

In stories, characters may have diverging paths that represent their different choices and life outcomes.
The concept appears in famous literary works, such as Robert Frost's poem about two diverging roads in a yellow wood, symbolizing choices in life.
Diverging plotlines often lead to unique endings, showing how different routes can lead to varied experiences.

Psychology

Diverging thoughts can indicate creativity, as they involve thinking of multiple ideas or solutions at once.
In discussions, when opinions diverge, it suggests a healthy exchange of ideas, showcasing differing perspectives.
Conflict can arise when beliefs or values diverge, leading to misunderstandings or growth in dialogue.

Environmental Science

Ecosystems can diverge as different species adapt to unique environments, contributing to biodiversity.
In climate studies, pathways of climate change can diverge based on human activity and natural events.
Diverging river paths create diverse habitats and influence the surrounding ecosystem's health.

Philosophy

Diverging beliefs often lead to different schools of thought, allowing for broader discussions on existence and morality.
Philosophers debate whether diverging opinions can coexist harmoniously or lead to discord.
The examination of diverging perspectives is crucial in ethical dilemmas, shaping the understanding of right and wrong.

Origin of 'diverging'

The word 'diverging' originated from the Latin word 'divergere', which is a combination of 'di-' meaning 'apart' and 'vergere' meaning 'to turn'. The term has been used in various fields such as mathematics, physics, and general language to indicate a separation or deviation from a common point or path.

See also: diverge, divergence, divergences, divergent.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,585, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16582 conciliatory
16583 colonized
16584 aver
16585 diverging
16586 embarking
16587 vindicated
16588 ovulation
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