deviating / different
Loading your saved state.
deviating / different
Different from the norm, a rule, a plan, or an expectation. Often used in the expression 'abweichend von' (deviating from / contrary to).
Abweichend von der ursprünglichen Planung treffen wir uns erst um 15 Uhr.
Contrary to the original plan, we will not meet until 3 p.m.
The word is the present participle of the separable verb 'abweichen' (to deviate). It is made up of 'ab' (away from something) and 'weichen' (to move away from a place). So the meaning is literally to 'move away' from a path or a norm.
Sein Verhalten weicht stark von der Norm ab.
His behavior deviates strongly from the norm.
'Abweichend' is almost always used with the preposition 'von' followed by the dative. This structure describes what something deviates from.
Abweichend von der Regel machen wir heute eine Ausnahme.
Contrary to the rule, we are making an exception today.
The word 'abweichend' (deviating / different) belongs more to formal language and is often used in official notices, contracts, or academic texts.
Abweichende Vereinbarungen bedürfen der Schriftform.
Deviating agreements must be made in writing.
other / different
'ander' and 'abweichend' both describe that something is not the same. 'ander' is neutral and very general: something is simply different. 'abweichend' is more specific and means that something deviates from a rule, a plan, an expectation, or a normal case. That is why 'abweichend' often sounds more formal. In everyday life, 'anders' is often enough. If you want to show that something does not match the plan or the norm, 'abweichend' is more suitable.
Im Kurs gilt heute eine abweichende Regel für die Gruppenarbeit.
In the course today, a different rule applies to the group work.
Eriks Plan für das Wochenende ist diesmal anders.
Erik's plan for the weekend is different this time.