Nonconformities: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in quality management and compliance sectors to describe processes or products that do not meet specified standards.

• The audit identified several nonconformities in the production process.
• Address any nonconformities to ensure the product meets the required regulations.

Often used in statistical or scientific contexts to indicate a departure from an established norm or average. It can also be used in general contexts to signify straying from a planned course or method.

• The experiment showed a significant deviation from the expected results.
• Any deviation from the flight path needs to be reported immediately.

Commonly used in financial, data analysis, or investigative contexts to point out inconsistencies or differences that should not exist.

• The financial report showed several discrepancies that needed further investigation.
• There were discrepancies in the witness statements.

Typically used in budgeting, accounting, and legal contexts to describe the difference between planned and actual figures, or in legal terms, an official exception to a rule.

• We need to analyze the variances between our projected and actual expenses.
• The contractor applied for a variance to build closer to the property line.

This term is often used in formal or business settings to describe deviations from standards, regulations, or expectations. It typically has a neutral or negative connotation based on the context.

• The audit report listed several nonconformities that need to be addressed.
• The team is working to correct the nonconformities in the production process.

This term describes behavior that resists authority, control, or tradition. It is often used in a more personal or social context and can carry either a negative or slightly positive connotation depending on the perspective.

• Teenagers often go through a phase of rebelliousness.
• Her rebelliousness was seen as a sign of strength and independence.

This word is used to describe behavior, ideas, or methods that are different from the usual or accepted norms. It generally has a neutral or positive connotation.

• His unconventionality made him a successful entrepreneur.
• She is known for her unconventionality in her fashion choices.

This word is commonly used in regulatory, legal, or administrative contexts to describe the failure to adhere to rules or laws. It usually has a negative connotation.

• The company was fined for noncompliance with environmental regulations.
• Noncompliance with safety standards can lead to serious consequences.