deviate from track; deviate from norms
Meanings
2 senses · 7 examplesverb
to veer off course; to deviate from track
Originally used for vehicles. Also used for objects moving along a set path (e.g., conveyor belt, train).
The road is slippery on rainy days; if the driver is not careful, the car can easily veer off course.
This machine's conveyor belt always deviates; it needs to be adjusted.
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If a train's wheels are severely worn, it may deviate from the track while running.
verb
to go off topic; to stray from norms; to deviate from standard
informalMetaphorical extension. Commonly used to describe conversations, behavior, or projects losing focus.
Let's discuss the budget; don't go off topic.
Some of his actions have already deviated from the path set by company regulations.
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The central idea of this article is good, but the argument in the middle strays a bit.
The team's goal must be clear; otherwise, the project can easily go off track.