What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deflect
Example
The goalie managed to deflect the ball away from the goalpost. [deflect: verb]
Example
She tried to deflect the conversation away from her personal life. [deflect: verb]
Example
The armor was designed to deflect bullets and other projectiles. [deflect: verb]
deviate
Example
We had to deviate from our original route due to road closures. [deviate: verb]
Example
His behavior deviated from the norm, causing concern among his colleagues. [deviated: past tense]
Example
The chef decided to deviate from the recipe and add his own twist to the dish. [deviate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deviate is more commonly used than deflect in everyday language. Deviate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while deflect is less common and typically used in specific physical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between deflect and deviate?
Both deflect and deviate are formal words that can be used in professional or academic contexts.
