die Abweichung
Translation
deviation, discrepancy, variance, divergence
Examples
Es gab geringe Abweichungen vom Plan.
There were minor deviations from the plan.
Die Abweichung der Messwerte ist signifikant.
The deviation of the measured values is significant.
Grammar Patterns
((from sth.)) deviation from sth. There is a deviation from the normal state.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Unterschied, Diskrepanz, Differenz; Antonyms: Übereinstimmung, Konformität
Etymology
From the prefix 'ab-' (away) + the verb 'weichen' (to yield, give way) + the noun suffix '-ung'. It literally means 'a yielding away from'.
Memory Tips
Imagine 'weichen' as giving way, and 'ab-' as away. A deviation is when something 'gives way' from the standard path.