Translation guide
The concept of divergence covers a range of meanings from physical separation and difference to mathematical and abstract deviation. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions for an English-speaking learner, starting with general difference and moving to more specific or technical uses.
Expressing that two or more things are not the same, or that there is a gap between them.
The most common and versatile word for 'difference'. Can be used in almost any context.
There is a divergence of opinion.
There is a significant divergence between these two sets of data.
A more formal term for 'difference' or 'discrepancy', often used in written or official contexts.
There is a divergence in their views.
Refers to a gap, misalignment, or deviation. Often used for subtle or gradual divergence.
Correct the divergence in perception.
A discrepancy or conflict, often between statements, facts, or expectations. Slightly more concrete than ずれ.
There is a divergence in the testimonies.
Describing physical or metaphorical movement away from a common point or each other.
Branching off or diverging, like a road or a path. Also used metaphorically for opinions or life paths.
The road diverges into two.
Opinions diverged.
Divergence in the sense of spreading out or radiating, like light rays or ideas. Also used in mathematics.
Deviation or departure from a norm, standard, or expected path. Often has a negative connotation.
A growing apart or estrangement, often used for abstract things like ideals and reality, or economic indicators.
The technical term in vector calculus or other sciences.
The standard mathematical term for divergence of a vector field.
Calculate the divergence of the vector field.
The English loanword used in technical contexts, especially in finance or trading (e.g., divergence indicators).
Check the MACD divergence.
違い is the everyday word for 'difference'. 相違 is formal and often used in legal, business, or academic writing. In casual speech, 違い is always preferred.
What's the difference?
No divergence is observed between the two.
English 'divergence' is often used abstractly. In Japanese, it's more natural to use specific words like 違い (difference), ずれ (gap), or 分岐 (branching) depending on context. Using a direct translation like 発散 or 乖離 in non-technical contexts can sound unnatural.
光線が発散する。
The light rays diverge.
計画からの逸脱は許されない。
Divergence from the plan is not permitted.
Suffer from the divergence between ideals and reality.