Divergent
Divergent means tending to differ; moving apart or developing in different directions. It can describe opinions, paths, or outcomes that are not in agreement or not converging.
adjectiveDivergent
Divergent means tending to differ; moving apart or developing in different directions. It can describe opinions, paths, or outcomes that are not in agreement or not converging.
adjectiveImagine This
Two rescue divers urgently dived into the pool to save someone reported drowning. They couldn't find the person, so they separated and went in different directions to cover more area in less time.
Sounds Like
dih-VUR-juhnt
Looks Like
diverge (verb) root
Remember This
Divergent shares a root with diverge and divergence; from Latin divergere 'to turn aside'. In math, divergence is a separate concept about how a vector field spreads out from a point.
Other Forms
Connect With
Divide, divert, diverge, divorce (related to separation); note the contrast with converge, which means to come together.
Note
Divergent is not the same as 'diverse' (varied by kind); use 'divergent' for moving apart or differing; the noun form is 'divergence' and the verb is 'diverge'. Be careful not to confuse with 'diversion' (a distraction).
Study Deeper
- Their opinions on the issue were divergent, making it hard to reach a decision.
- The two trails followed divergent routes up the mountain, each offering a different view.
From Latin divergens, divergere 'to turn away, separate'. The prefix 'di-' means apart, and 'vergere' means to turn.
Mnemonic: DI-VERG-ENT. Think of two diverging paths at a fork in the road, with VERG representing turning apart.
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Prevail
verbTo be more powerful or successful than opposing forces; to win or triumph; also to persuade someone to do something (as in prevail upon).
Retraction
nounThe act of withdrawing a statement or claim; a formal reversal or correction of something previously stated or published.
Laconic
adjectiveExpressed in only a few words; concise to the point of seeming abrupt.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Abstruse
adjectiveDifficult to understand; obscure or highly complex.
Accidental
adjectiveHappening by chance or without deliberate planning; not intended. In music, it is also a noun for a symbol that temporarily alters a pitch.
Acerbic
adjectiveSharp or biting in tone or taste; caustic or mordant in manner.
Acquiescent
adjectiveReady to agree or approve without protest; compliant.
Adamant
adjectiveRigid in opinion or purpose; not willing to change one's mind or position.
Adept
adjectiveHaving or showing a high level of skill or proficiency; very capable.