Skip to content

divergence

divergence

noun dee-vehr-ZHAHNSS Rare

Origin: Medieval Latin divergentia, from divergere 'to incline apart'

Also means

disagreement

Usage Note

Divergence describes both a physical spreading apart (like light beams) and a difference of opinion or approach. Divergence de vues ('divergence of views') is a common diplomatic phrase. The corresponding verb is diverger, and the adjective is divergent — as in pensée divergente ('divergent thinking').

Examples

"Il y a une divergence d'opinions sur ce sujet."

Natural Translation

There is a divergence of opinions on this subject.

Free starter pack

Building your French vocabulary?

Get the 100 most common French words as a free PDF — one email, no spam.

Explore French by topic