01
abweichen
to deviate
To differ from or move away from a norm, a plan, a rule, or an expected value.
example
Das tatsächliche Ergebnis weicht stark von unserer Prognose ab.
The actual result deviates strongly from our forecast.
abweichen
to deviate / to soak
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Separable verb
'Abweichen' (to deviate/to soak) is a separable verb. The prefix 'ab' goes at the end in a main clause. In a subordinate clause, the verb stays together, and in the infinitive with 'zu' it is 'abzuweichen'.
EXAMPLE
Seine Antwort wich von der erwarteten Norm ab.
His answer deviated from the expected norm.
Fixed preposition
In the meaning 'sich unterscheiden' (to differ), 'abweichen' (to deviate) is almost always used with the preposition 'von' and the dative.
EXAMPLE
Die gelieferte Ware weicht von der Beschreibung im Katalog ab.
The delivered goods deviate from the description in the catalog.
Context clue
The two meanings are easy to distinguish. When it is about plans, norms, or opinions, 'abweichen von' (to deviate from) is meant. When it is about food and liquid, the rarer meaning 'weich machen' (to make soft) is meant, which takes an accusative object.
EXAMPLE
Das Wetter weicht von der Vorhersage ab.
The weather deviates from the forecast.
Compare with
abweichen vs bleiben
to stay / remain
'bleiben' and 'abweichen' form a contrast when it comes to a decision, opinion, rule, or plan. With 'bleiben bei', you say that someone sticks with something and does not change it. 'abweichen', on the other hand, means that someone moves away from a rule, a plan, or an expected value. 'Bleiben bei' is natural with opinions or decisions, for example. 'abweichen' is more suitable for rules, routes, plans, or numbers.
abweichen
Der Lehrer weicht heute vom Plan ab, weil die Klasse noch Fragen hat.
The teacher is deviating from the plan today because the class still has questions.
bleiben
Nach der Diskussion bleibt Anna bei ihrer Entscheidung.
After the discussion, Anna is sticking with her decision.
In real life
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