What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nonconformance
Example
The product was rejected due to nonconformance with the quality standards. [nonconformance: noun]
Example
The team received a warning for nonconformance with the safety regulations. [nonconformance: noun]
deviation
Example
The project experienced a deviation from the original plan due to unforeseen circumstances. [deviation: noun]
Example
The employee was reprimanded for deviation from the company's code of conduct. [deviation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Deviation is more commonly used than nonconformance in everyday language. Deviation is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while nonconformance is less common and mainly used in quality control and manufacturing contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nonconformance and deviation?
Both nonconformance and deviation are formal words that are typically used in professional or technical contexts.