What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
deviate
Example
The hiker deviated from the trail and got lost. [deviated: past tense]
Example
The company's profits deviated from the projected numbers. [deviated: verb]
Example
Let's not deviate from the main topic of discussion. [deviate: verb]
depart
Example
The flight will depart at 6 pm. [depart: verb]
Example
She departed from her usual reserved demeanor and spoke up. [departed: past tense]
Example
I need to depart from my usual diet and indulge in some pizza. [depart: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Depart is more commonly used than deviate in everyday language. Depart is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while deviate is less common and more specific in meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between deviate and depart?
Deviate is typically associated with a more formal tone, while depart can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
