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departure from the norm

NOUN
variation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abnormality alteration change deviation discrepancy disparity divergence diversity fluctuation innovation modification mutation shift variety
STRONG
aberration adaptation bend break contradistinction contrast curve deflection departure digression displacement dissimilarity dissimilitude distinction diversification exception inequality novelty swerve turn
WEAK
unconformity
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agreement harmony sameness similarity stagnation uniformity
STRONG
conformity continuation equality likeness line normality regularity
WEAK
root source

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Cougars played the majority of the game from behind, a departure from the norm, and in the second half, they couldn’t make their slim leads last.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 24, 2024

Following Mick McCarthy, Paul Lambert and Paul Cook in the Ipswich hot seat, McKenna was a huge departure from the norm when appointed at Portman Road.

From BBC • Nov. 1, 2023

In what was largely a departure from the norm, he also played to the Republicans in attendance, goading them into peeved responses that he could then meet with a confident camaraderie:

From Slate • Feb. 8, 2023

Spicy Thai lime nuts with baked makrut leaves and a Tom Yum powder offer a zesty, citrusy departure from the norm, making them your new must-try handful for an irresistible snack on the go.

From Salon • Feb. 28, 2022

No carmine radical in Art, I worship at the shrine of Form; Yet open are my mind and heart To each departure from the norm.

From Something Else Again by Adams, Franklin P. (Franklin Pierce)