偏离
偏离 in 30 Seconds
- 偏离 means to deviate or stray from a path, standard, or topic, used for both physical and abstract movement.
- It is a formal verb, common in news, navigation, and professional discussions about plans and goals.
- Grammatically, it usually follows the pattern 'Subject + 偏离 + Object', often using '了' for completed actions.
- Key collocations include 偏离轨道 (deviate from orbit), 偏离主题 (off-topic), and 偏离航线 (off-course).
The Chinese verb 偏离 (piānlí) is a precise and formal term used to describe the act of moving away from a set path, a standard, or an expected course of action. In its most literal sense, it refers to physical movement, such as a ship drifting away from its nautical route or a car swerving from its lane. However, its utility extends far into the abstract, where it describes deviations from logic, topics of conversation, social norms, or strategic goals. When you use 偏离, you are implying that there is a 'correct' or 'intended' line, and the subject has moved to the side of it.
- Physical Deviation
- This refers to objects in motion. For example, a satellite might deviate from its orbit due to gravitational pull, or a hiker might deviate from a trail in the woods. In these cases, 偏离 is often followed by a noun like 轨道 (guǐdào - orbit/track) or 路线 (lùxiàn - route).
由于强风,飞机的航向偏离了预定航线。(Due to strong winds, the airplane's heading deviated from the intended route.)
- Abstract Deviation
- This is common in academic and professional settings. If a discussion goes off-topic, it is said to 偏离主题 (piānlí zhǔtí). If a company's actions no longer align with its original mission, they have 偏离目标 (piānlí mùbiāo). It suggests a loss of focus or a shift in values.
Understanding the nuance of 偏离 requires recognizing its component parts: 偏 (piān) meaning 'slanted' or 'biased' and 离 (lí) meaning 'to leave' or 'be distant from'. Together, they create a visual of leaving a straight line by leaning or turning to the side. This word is essential for B1 learners who are moving beyond simple verbs like 'go' or 'leave' and want to describe 'how' or 'in what manner' something left its path. In modern Chinese, you will see this word in news reports about economics (deviating from forecasts), technology (data points deviating from the norm), and social commentary (deviating from tradition).
我们不能让短期利益使我们偏离公司的核心价值观。(We cannot let short-term interests make us deviate from the company's core values.)
- Professional Contexts
- In data analysis, 偏离 is used to describe outliers or variance. In engineering, it describes tolerances. In a meeting, it is a polite way to tell someone they are rambling: '你偏离主题了' (You have deviated from the topic).
Using 偏离 (piānlí) correctly involves understanding its grammatical structure, which is typically [Subject] + 偏离 + [Object/Standard]. Because it is a verb of motion or state change, it often takes the particle 了 (le) to indicate that the deviation has already occurred. It is also common to see it modified by adverbs like 严重 (yánzhòng - seriously), 稍微 (shāowēi - slightly), or 完全 (wánquán - completely).
- The 'Subject + 偏离 + Object' Pattern
- This is the most direct usage. The object is the path or standard being left behind. Example: 这种行为偏离了社会准则 (This behavior deviates from social norms). Here, 'social norms' is the anchor that the behavior is moving away from.
如果你的计划偏离了初衷,就很难取得成功。(If your plan deviates from its original intention, it will be hard to achieve success.)
Another important aspect of 偏离 is its use in formal writing to describe statistical or scientific variance. In these contexts, it is often paired with specific nouns like 轨道 (orbit), 航线 (route), 轴线 (axis), or 预定路径 (predetermined path). When discussing logic or arguments, it pairs with 主题 (topic), 逻辑 (logic), or 事实 (facts). Notice how the word maintains a sense of 'drifting' rather than a sudden 'break'. It suggests a gradual or unintentional movement away from the center.
实验结果偏离了我们的理论预测。(The experimental results deviated from our theoretical predictions.)
- Common Adverbial Modifiers
- To describe the extent of deviation, use: 1. 严重偏离 (Seriously deviate), 2. 略微偏离 (Slightly deviate), 3. 逐渐偏离 (Gradually deviate). These modifiers add precision to your descriptions of change.
You will encounter 偏离 (piānlí) in several specific real-world scenarios in China. While it might be too formal for a casual chat about what to eat for lunch, it is ubiquitous in news media, professional environments, and educational settings. Understanding these contexts helps you recognize the 'vibe' of the word, which is serious, analytical, and objective.
- In News and Media
- News anchors often use 偏离 when reporting on accidents or scientific discoveries. For instance, if a typhoon changes its expected path, the reporter might say, '台风偏离了预报的路径' (The typhoon deviated from the forecasted path). It is also used in economic news to describe market trends that don't match expectations.
由于技术故障,航天器偏离了轨道。(Due to a technical glitch, the spacecraft deviated from its orbit.)
In a corporate boardroom in Shanghai or Beijing, 偏离 is a key term for project management. If a project is going over budget or missing deadlines, it is '偏离了计划' (deviated from the plan). It is a more professional way of saying 'things are going wrong' because it focuses on the objective distance from the goal rather than assigning emotional blame. You'll also hear it in GPS navigation systems in Chinese, where the voice might say '你已偏离航线' (You have deviated from the route) if you miss a turn.
在讨论中,我们不应该偏离会议的主要议程。(In the discussion, we should not deviate from the main agenda of the meeting.)
- Literature and Philosophy
- In more literary contexts, 偏离 can describe a character's moral descent or their departure from traditional values. A story might describe a protagonist who '偏离了正道' (deviated from the righteous path), adding a layer of ethical weight to the word.
While 偏离 (piānlí) is a useful word, learners often confuse it with other terms that mean 'to leave' or 'to change'. Because 偏离 has a specific nuance of 'straying from a path', using it in the wrong context can make your Chinese sound unnatural. Here are the most frequent errors and how to avoid them.
- Confusing 偏离 with 离开 (líkāi)
- 离开 means 'to leave' a place or a person (e.g., 'I left the room'). 偏离 means 'to deviate' from a course. You wouldn't say '我偏离了房间' to mean you left the room; that would imply the room was a path you were supposed to be following and you drifted away from it.
错误 (Wrong): 他偏离了家。 正确 (Right): 他离开了家。(He left home.)
Another mistake is using 偏离 as a noun. In English, 'deviation' is a noun, but in Chinese, 偏离 is primarily a verb. If you need a noun, you should use 偏差 (piānchā - error/deviation) or 偏离度 (piānlídù - degree of deviation). For example, instead of saying '这是一个大的偏离', you should say '这有一个很大的偏差'. Furthermore, learners sometimes forget that 偏离 needs an object. You can't just say 'The car deviated' (汽车偏离了) without implying or stating what it deviated from (e.g., 汽车偏离了道路).
不要让这些琐事使你偏离了你的最终目标。(Don't let these trifles make you deviate from your ultimate goal.)
- Overusing it in Casual Speech
- Because 偏离 is quite formal, using it in very casual situations might sound stiff. For instance, if you're walking with a friend and they take a wrong turn, '你走错了' (You walked the wrong way) is much more natural than '你偏离了路径'. Save 偏离 for when you want to sound precise or are discussing serious topics.
Chinese has several words that overlap with 偏离 (piānlí). Choosing the right one depends on whether you are talking about physical movement, moral choices, or simple errors. Here is a comparison of 偏离 with its closest synonyms to help you refine your vocabulary.
- 偏离 vs. 偏差 (piānchā)
- The main difference is part of speech. 偏离 is a verb (to deviate), while 偏差 is a noun (a deviation/error). If you are talking about the 'gap' between the result and the goal, use 偏差. If you are talking about the 'action' of moving away, use 偏离.
数据中存在一些偏差,因为仪器偏离了标准位置。(There are some deviations in the data because the instrument deviated from the standard position.)
- 偏离 vs. 背离 (bèilí)
- 背离 is much stronger and more negative. While 偏离 can be accidental (like a ship drifting), 背离 often implies a conscious or radical abandonment of principles, faith, or people. You '背离' your country or your religion, suggesting a betrayal.
Another related word is 违背 (wéibèi), which means 'to go against' or 'to violate'. This is used for rules, laws, or promises. While 偏离 implies drifting away from a line, 违背 implies breaking a rule. For example, you '违背承诺' (break a promise) but '偏离主题' (deviate from the topic). Lastly, 走样 (zǒuyàng) is an informal word meaning 'to lose shape' or 'to change from the original', often used when a story or a tradition is passed down and changes too much.
他的行为完全背离了他的职业道德。(His behavior completely deviated/departed from his professional ethics.)
- Summary Table
- 1. 偏离: Neutral/Technical deviation from a path. 2. 背离: Strong/Moral abandonment. 3. 违背: Violation of rules/laws. 4. 偏差: The noun form of a mistake or gap.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character 离 (lí) is also the name of one of the eight trigrams in the I Ching (Book of Changes), representing fire and the sun. In that context, it signifies 'clinging' or 'brightness', which is the opposite of its modern meaning 'to leave'.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'piān' as 'biān' (changing p to b).
- Pronouncing 'lí' as 'lì' (4th tone instead of 2nd).
- Mixing up 'piān' with 'piàn' (slice/piece).
- Mumbling the 'n' in 'piān'.
- Failing to rise enough on the 'lí' tone.
Difficulty Rating
The characters are medium difficulty, but the word is common in news and exams.
Writing '离' can be tricky for beginners due to its stroke order.
Pronunciation is straightforward if you master the 1st and 2nd tones.
Easy to recognize in context because it's usually followed by a clear object.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Verb + 了 (Completed Action)
飞机偏离了航线。(The plane has deviated from the route.)
Adverb + Verb
数据严重偏离了标准。(The data seriously deviated from the standard.)
使/让 (Causative)
偏见使他偏离了事实。(Bias made him deviate from the facts.)
逐渐 (Gradual Change)
他逐渐偏离了他的目标。(He gradually deviated from his goal.)
不仅...还... (Not only... but also...)
他的行为不仅偏离了准则,还伤害了他人。(His behavior not only deviated from the norms but also hurt others.)
Examples by Level
小鸟偏离了它的家。
The little bird deviated from its home.
Simple Subject + Verb + Object structure.
球偏离了方向。
The ball deviated from its direction.
Using 偏离 to describe a simple physical change.
他偏离了小路。
He deviated from the small path.
Basic use of 偏离 for physical movement.
不要偏离这里。
Don't deviate from here.
Using '不要' for a simple command.
车偏离了路。
The car deviated from the road.
Very basic S-V-O pattern.
水偏离了水管。
The water deviated from the pipe.
Simple physical deviation.
他的手偏离了目标。
His hand deviated from the target.
Focus on the target (目标).
我们偏离了那棵树。
We deviated from that tree.
Using a landmark as the object.
汽车偏离了原来的航线。
The car deviated from its original route.
Adding '原来的' (original) to describe the object.
船在雾中偏离了方向。
The boat deviated from its direction in the fog.
Adding a prepositional phrase '在雾中' (in the fog).
他的回答偏离了我的问题。
His answer deviated from my question.
Introducing abstract deviation (answering a question).
飞机偏离了预定的轨道。
The airplane deviated from its predetermined track.
Using '预定的' (predetermined) as a modifier.
因为风大,箭偏离了靶子。
Because of the strong wind, the arrow deviated from the target.
Using '因为' to show cause.
你稍微偏离了正确的路径。
You slightly deviated from the correct path.
Using the adverb '稍微' (slightly).
他的生活偏离了正常的轨道。
His life deviated from the normal track.
Metaphorical use for 'life' (生活).
光线在水中会偏离方向。
Light deviates from its direction in water.
Simple scientific observation.
在讨论中,我们不应该偏离主题。
In the discussion, we should not deviate from the topic.
Common collocation: 偏离主题 (deviate from the topic).
由于缺乏经验,他偏离了最初的目标。
Due to a lack of experience, he deviated from his initial goal.
Using '由于' (due to) and '最初的' (initial).
实验的数据偏离了标准值。
The experimental data deviated from the standard values.
Using '数据' (data) and '标准值' (standard value).
如果计划偏离了初衷,我们就得修改它。
If the plan deviates from its original intention, we must modify it.
Conditional '如果...就...' structure.
他的建议严重偏离了公司的政策。
His suggestion seriously deviated from the company policy.
Using '严重' (seriously) as an intensifier.
这种新产品偏离了我们传统的风格。
This new product deviates from our traditional style.
Using '传统的' (traditional) to modify the object.
导航系统提醒我偏离了预定航线。
The navigation system reminded me that I deviated from the intended route.
Using '提醒' (remind) with a clause.
在写作时,要注意不要偏离中心思想。
When writing, be careful not to deviate from the central idea.
Using '要注意' (pay attention to) and '中心思想' (central idea).
这种行为显然偏离了社会普遍认可的准则。
This behavior clearly deviates from generally accepted social norms.
Using '显然' (clearly) and '普遍认可的' (generally accepted).
我们的讨论逐渐偏离了核心议题,变得毫无意义。
Our discussion gradually deviated from the core issue and became meaningless.
Using '逐渐' (gradually) and '核心议题' (core issue).
经济学家指出,当前的通胀率已偏离了安全区间。
Economists pointed out that the current inflation rate has deviated from the safe range.
Using '指出' (point out) to introduce a report.
该项目的实际进展已经严重偏离了时间表。
The actual progress of the project has seriously deviated from the schedule.
Using '严重' (seriously) and '时间表' (schedule).
这种解释似乎偏离了作者的本意。
This interpretation seems to deviate from the author's original intention.
Using '似乎' (seems) to express uncertainty.
一旦你偏离了原则,就很难再回头了。
Once you deviate from your principles, it's hard to turn back.
Using '一旦...就...' (once... then...).
卫星因引力影响偏离了原定轨道。
The satellite deviated from its original orbit due to gravitational influence.
Using '因...影响' (due to the influence of...).
如果不加干预,情况可能会进一步偏离预期。
If no intervention is made, the situation may further deviate from expectations.
Using '进一步' (further) and '预期' (expectations).
该理论的最新发展在某种程度上偏离了其原始的逻辑框架。
Recent developments in this theory have to some extent deviated from its original logical framework.
Using '在某种程度上' (to some extent) and '逻辑框架' (logical framework).
他的言论被认为偏离了官方的外交立场。
His remarks were considered to have deviated from the official diplomatic stance.
Passive structure '被认为' (be considered).
这些异常数据可能意味着实验过程偏离了受控条件。
These anomalous data may mean that the experimental process deviated from controlled conditions.
Using '意味着' (means) and '受控条件' (controlled conditions).
在全球化背景下,某些传统文化正逐渐偏离其根源。
In the context of globalization, some traditional cultures are gradually deviating from their roots.
Using '在全球化背景下' as a contextual phrase.
该判决被批评为偏离了法律的公正精神。
The verdict was criticized as deviating from the spirit of justice in the law.
Using '被批评为' (be criticized as).
任何微小的操作失误都可能使航天飞机偏离轨道。
Any minor operational error could cause the space shuttle to deviate from its orbit.
Using '使' (make/cause) in a hypothetical context.
这种审美倾向偏离了大众的普遍口味。
This aesthetic trend deviates from the general taste of the public.
Using '审美倾向' (aesthetic trend) and '普遍口味' (general taste).
在极端压力下,人类的行为往往会偏离理性的轨道。
Under extreme pressure, human behavior often deviates from the track of rationality.
Using '往往会' (often will) and '理性的轨道' (track of rationality).
这种哲学思辨似乎在某种程度上偏离了存在主义的核心旨趣。
This philosophical speculation seems to have deviated to some extent from the core tenets of existentialism.
Using high-level terms like '思辨' (speculation) and '旨趣' (tenets/purport).
该文体在演变过程中,逐渐偏离了其最初的抒情特质,转向了叙事。
In its evolution, this literary style gradually deviated from its original lyrical qualities and turned toward narrative.
Using '演变过程' (process of evolution) and '抒情特质' (lyrical qualities).
若货币政策过度偏离中性水平,可能会引发系统性金融风险。
If monetary policy deviates excessively from a neutral level, it may trigger systemic financial risks.
Using '若' (if - formal) and '系统性金融风险' (systemic financial risk).
这部电影的改编被指责为严重偏离了原著的精神实质。
The film adaptation was accused of seriously deviating from the spiritual essence of the original work.
Using '被指责为' (be accused of) and '精神实质' (spiritual essence).
在高度复杂的系统中,微小的输入偏差可能导致输出结果严重偏离预期值。
In highly complex systems, minor input deviations can cause output results to seriously deviate from expected values.
Using technical phrasing: '输入偏差' (input deviation) and '预期值' (expected value).
这种社会契约的履行情况已经明显偏离了最初的法治蓝图。
The implementation of this social contract has clearly deviated from the original rule-of-law blueprint.
Using '社会契约' (social contract) and '法治蓝图' (rule-of-law blueprint).
艺术家的晚期作品在风格上显著地偏离了其成名时期的写实主义。
The artist's late works significantly deviated in style from the realism of their famous period.
Using '显著地' (significantly) and '成名时期' (period of becoming famous).
当权力的运行偏离了法治的轨道,腐败便会滋生。
When the exercise of power deviates from the track of the rule of law, corruption will breed.
A sophisticated conditional sentence about political science.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To move away from one's original intention or purpose. Used when an project changes too much.
这个项目的发展已经偏离了初衷。
— To deviate from the facts. Used when someone is lying or mistaken.
你的描述严重偏离了事实。
— To stray from the 'right' or moral path. Often used in stories about character growth.
他年轻时曾一度偏离了正道。
— To deviate from logic. Used when an argument makes no sense.
他的推导过程偏离了基本逻辑。
— To deviate from a standard. Used in quality control or academic grading.
这些产品的质量偏离了行业标准。
— To deviate to the left. Used in navigation or physics.
子弹向左偏离了三厘米。
— To deviate from the course (specifically nautical or aeronautical).
船长发现船已经偏离了航向。
— To gradually deviate over time.
两人的观点正在逐渐偏离。
— To completely deviate; total divergence.
这与我们的初衷完全偏离。
— To deviate from the main storyline or main line of thought.
小说后半部分偏离了主线。
Often Confused With
离开 means to leave a location. 偏离 means to drift away from a path or standard.
背离 is much stronger, implying a total break or betrayal, whereas 偏离 can be accidental.
偏差 is a noun (the error itself). 偏离 is a verb (the action of deviating).
Idioms & Expressions
— To depart from classic scriptures and rebel against the established way; to be heterodox or unconventional.
他的艺术风格在当时被视为离经叛道。
Literary— To go separate ways; to part company after following the same path.
由于志向不同,他们最终分道扬镳了。
Neutral— To run in opposite directions; to go against the grain or be diametrically opposed.
他的做法与我们的初衷背道而驰。
Formal— To change the strings of a bow; to change one's course or policy completely.
公司决定改弦更张,寻找新的发展方向。
Formal— To act in a way that defeats one's purpose (literally: going north while the shafts point south).
你的计划与目标简直是南辕北辙。
Literary— To be led astray; to enter a wrong or evil path.
我们要防止年轻人误入歧途。
Neutral— To reach the same goal by different routes.
虽然方法不同,但我们是殊途同归。
Formal— To leave the darkness and come into the light; to defect from a bad side to a good one.
他决定弃暗投明,协助警方调查。
Literary— To depart from one's normal behavior; to act completely differently than usual.
他今天一反常态,变得非常沉默。
Neutral— Literally 'to go off the rails'; commonly used for marital infidelity or going off a set plan.
这列火车不幸出轨了。(The train derailed.)
Neutral/SlangEasily Confused
Both share '偏' and deal with deviation.
偏差 is a noun meaning 'error' or 'variance'. 偏离 is the verb 'to deviate'. You measure a 偏差, but an object will 偏离 its path.
这个数据有偏差。 (This data has a deviation.) vs. 卫星偏离了轨道。 (The satellite deviated from its orbit.)
Both share '离' and mean moving away.
背离 (bèilí) literally means 'turning one's back and leaving'. It is used for strong moral or ideological breaks. 偏离 (piānlí) is more technical and neutral.
他背离了祖国。(He betrayed his country.) vs. 他偏离了航线。(He drifted off course.)
Both involve not following a set line.
违背 (wéibèi) is specifically for rules, laws, or promises. 偏离 is for paths, standards, or topics. You 'violate' a rule, but you 'deviate' from a path.
违背诺言 (break a promise) vs. 偏离目标 (deviate from a goal).
Both mean going off-topic.
离题 (lítí) is an adjective/verb specifically for academic writing or speeches. 偏离主题 is a more formal and versatile phrase that uses 偏离 as a verb.
这篇文章写得离题了。(This essay is off-topic.) vs. 讨论偏离了主题。(The discussion deviated from the topic.)
Both mean leaving a track.
出轨 (chūguǐ) is used for train derailments or marital affairs. 偏离轨道 is used for satellites, planets, or metaphorical plans.
火车出轨了。(The train derailed.) vs. 他的生活偏离了轨道。(His life drifted off track.)
Sentence Patterns
S + 偏离了 + N
他偏离了目标。
不要 + 偏离 + N
不要偏离主题。
S + 严重 + 偏离了 + N
结果严重偏离了预期。
由于...,S + 偏离了 + N
由于大雾,船偏离了方向。
使 + O + 偏离 + N
错误的信息使我们偏离了正确的轨道。
逐渐 + 偏离 + N
该地区的方言正逐渐偏离标准语。
若...,则可能 + 偏离 + N
若操作不当,则可能偏离预定程序。
显著地 + 偏离 + N
他的后期风格显著地偏离了早期作品。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common in academic, professional, and news contexts. Rare in very basic survival Chinese.
-
我偏离了公司。
→
我离开了公司。
You use 离开 to leave a place. You use 偏离 to drift away from a path or standard. Unless the company is a metaphorical 'path', this is wrong.
-
他的话很偏离。
→
他的话偏离了主题。
偏离 is a verb and usually needs an object. You can't just say something is 'very deviate' like an adjective.
-
这是一个大的偏离。
→
这是一个很大的偏差。
偏离 is a verb. If you need a noun (a deviation), use 偏差 (piānchā).
-
球偏离了门。
→
球偏离了球门的方向。
While 'deviated from the goal' is understandable, it's more natural to say it deviated from the 'direction' of the goal.
-
他偏离了法律。
→
他违背了法律。
For laws and rules, 违背 (violate) is the standard word. 偏离 sounds like he just drifted away from it by accident.
Tips
Using the Particle '了'
Always use '了' after 偏离 if the deviation has already happened. '他偏离了航线' sounds much more complete than '他偏离航线'.
Standard Objects
Memorize the 'Big Four' objects: 主题 (topic), 轨道 (orbit), 航线 (route), 目标 (goal). You will use these 90% of the time.
Formal Register
Use 偏离 in writing and formal speeches. In casual conversation with friends, '走歪了' or '跑题了' is usually better.
The Rising Second Tone
Make sure the second syllable 'lí' clearly rises. If it sounds flat, it might be confused with 'li' (inside).
Character Structure
The character 离 has a 'box' at the top and a 'person' shape at the bottom. Practice the stroke order to keep it balanced.
Directional Thinking
Think of 偏离 as 'leaning away'. This helps distinguish it from 离开 (just leaving) or 违背 (breaking).
Meeting Etiquette
If you need to steer a meeting back, say '我们不要偏离今天的主要议程' (Let's not deviate from today's main agenda).
Data Analysis
When describing a graph, use '偏离' to explain why a point is far from the trend line.
The 'P-L' Rule
P for Path, L for Leave. Piān-Lí = Path Leave (Deviate from Path).
The Middle Way
Remember that 偏 (slant) is the opposite of 中 (center/middle). 偏离 is moving away from the 'Middle Way'.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of a 'PIANo' (偏) that is 'LEAVing' (离) the stage. It's not going straight; it's sliding off to the side. PIAN-LI.
Visual Association
Imagine a straight train track. Suddenly, one rail bends away into the grass. That bending away is '偏离'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to use 偏离 in three different ways today: once for a physical object (like a ball), once for a conversation, and once for a plan. Write them down!
Word Origin
The word 偏离 is a compound of two characters that have existed since ancient Chinese. 偏 (piān) means 'slanted' or 'not centered', originally referring to a person leaning. 离 (lí) originally depicted a bird (specifically an oriole) and came to mean 'to leave' or 'to be separated from'.
Original meaning: The combination suggests 'leaving by slanting away'. In classical texts, it was used to describe physical objects that were not aligned correctly.
Sino-Tibetan, Sinitic.Cultural Context
When using 偏离 to describe someone's behavior, be aware it can sound judgmental, as if you are the one deciding what the 'correct' path is.
English speakers might use 'stray', 'drift', or 'deviate'. 'Deviate' is the closest formal match to 偏离.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Navigation & Transport
- 偏离航线
- 偏离航道
- 偏离预定路线
- 偏离轨道
Meetings & Discussions
- 偏离主题
- 偏离议程
- 偏离核心问题
- 偏离谈话内容
Science & Data
- 偏离标准值
- 偏离预期结果
- 偏离正常范围
- 偏离理论预测
Business & Strategy
- 偏离公司目标
- 偏离市场趋势
- 偏离原始计划
- 偏离品牌定位
Ethics & Behavior
- 偏离社会准则
- 偏离道德底线
- 偏离正道
- 偏离法律框架
Conversation Starters
"你觉得我们现在的讨论是不是已经偏离主题了? (Do you think our current discussion has already deviated from the topic?)"
"如果一个计划偏离了初衷,你认为应该坚持还是放弃? (If a plan deviates from its original intention, do you think one should persist or give up?)"
"你有没有过因为偏离方向而在森林或城市里迷路的经历? (Have you ever had the experience of getting lost because you deviated from the direction?)"
"在工作中,你是如何确保项目不会偏离预定轨道的? (In your work, how do you ensure that projects do not deviate from the predetermined track?)"
"你认为现代艺术是否已经偏离了传统的审美标准? (Do you think modern art has already deviated from traditional aesthetic standards?)"
Journal Prompts
写一写你曾经在一次重要的谈话中偏离主题的经历。当时发生了什么?你是如何回到主题的?
描述一个你制定的计划,但后来由于某些原因偏离了初衷。你对此有什么感受?
讨论一下科技的发展是否使人类的生活逐渐偏离了自然。给出你的理由和例子。
如果你发现你的朋友正在偏离人生的正道,你会如何建议他?请写下你的对话内容。
分析一个著名的历史事件,说明它是如何因为一个小小的决定而偏离了预定的进程的。
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, you should use 离开 (líkāi). 偏离 implies you were on a path and drifted off to the side. Leaving a party is just departing a location.
It is generally neutral but often used in negative contexts (like an accident or a failed plan). However, in science, it is just a neutral description of data.
The most common objects are 主题 (topic), 航线 (route), 轨道 (orbit), and 目标 (goal).
You can say '跑题了' (pǎotí le) or '扯远了' (chě yuǎn le). 偏离主题 (piānlí zhǔtí) is more formal.
Yes, but usually metaphorically, like '偏离了正道' (strayed from the righteous path) or '偏离了初衷' (strayed from original intent).
Yes, it is typically found in HSK 5 or 6 (old system) and B1/B2 levels in modern frameworks.
走偏 (zǒupiān) is more informal and often used for things like a machine not running straight or someone's thinking becoming biased.
Yes, in physics, light can 偏离 its original path when passing through a lens.
Yes, you can add '度' to make it '偏离度' (degree of deviation), which is a noun.
Yes, it's correct, but '偏离了航线' or '偏离了道路' sounds more natural and complete.
Test Yourself 200 questions
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘讨论’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘飞机’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘严重偏离’写一个关于‘预算’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'The result deviated from our expectations.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘生活轨道’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'Don't deviate from the topic during the meeting.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘逐渐偏离’写一个句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'The ship deviated from its course in the storm.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘目标’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'Your answer deviated from the fact.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘法律’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘稍微偏离’写一个句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'The satellite deviated from its orbit.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘初衷’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'Don't let short-term benefits make you deviate from your principles.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘光线’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'His behavior deviated from social norms.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘逻辑’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
翻译:'The economic growth deviated from the government's forecast.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’写一个关于‘道德’的句子。
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
用‘偏离’说一个关于你迷路的经历。
Read this aloud:
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在会议中,你如何礼貌地提醒别人‘偏离主题’了?
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谈谈你对‘偏离初衷’这个词的理解。
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描述一个物体‘偏离轨道’的情景。
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你认为什么样的行为算‘偏离正道’?
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翻译并朗读:'The plane deviated from the route.'
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如果你的计划偏离了预期,你会怎么办?
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用‘严重偏离’造一个口语化的句子。
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你觉得现代生活是否偏离了自然?为什么?
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朗读并解释:‘偏离轨道’。
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用‘偏离’谈论一次失败的实验或项目。
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你如何看待‘偏离传统’的艺术?
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说出一个‘偏离’的同义词并造句。
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描述一个‘偏离事实’的谎言。
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用‘稍微偏离’描述一个微小的错误。
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如果你发现讨论偏离了议程,你会说什么?
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用‘偏离’形容一个人的性格变化。
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解释‘偏离度’在金融中的意思。
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翻译并朗读:'Don't deviate from your goals.'
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用‘偏离’总结一个失败的故事。
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听力练习:(录音:)‘由于天气恶劣,轮船偏离了航线。’ 问题:轮船怎么了?
听力练习:(录音:)‘小王,你的汇报有点偏离主题了,请注意一下。’ 问题:说话人对小王提出了什么建议?
听力练习:(录音:)‘这种做法严重偏离了我们公司的核心价值观。’ 问题:这种做法符合公司价值观吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘卫星在进入大气层前偏离了预定轨道。’ 问题:卫星在什么时候偏离了轨道?
听力练习:(录音:)‘如果通胀率偏离了目标区间,央行将采取行动。’ 问题:央行什么时候会采取行动?
听力练习:(录音:)‘他的回答完全偏离了我的初衷。’ 问题:说话人满意他的回答吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘由于强磁场干扰,指南针偏离了北方。’ 问题:指南针为什么不准了?
听力练习:(录音:)‘你的操作已经偏离了安全手册的规定。’ 问题:这种操作安全吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘这篇报道的内容偏离了事实。’ 问题:报道是真实的吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘他逐渐偏离了研究的主线。’ 问题:他的研究有什么变化?
听力练习:(录音:)‘不要让感情偏离了理智。’ 问题:说话人希望听话人怎么做?
听力练习:(录音:)‘光线在水中发生了偏离。’ 问题:光线发生了什么?
听力练习:(录音:)‘这个结果稍微偏离了我们的预测。’ 问题:结果和预测差别大吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘他的一生从未偏离过他的信仰。’ 问题:他坚持他的信仰吗?
听力练习:(录音:)‘导航说我们偏离了五公里。’ 问题:偏离了多远?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
偏离 (piānlí) is your go-to formal verb for describing any kind of 'drifting away' from a set line, whether that line is a physical road, a scientific standard, or a conversation topic. Example: '他的行为偏离了公司的准则' (His behavior deviated from the company's guidelines).
- 偏离 means to deviate or stray from a path, standard, or topic, used for both physical and abstract movement.
- It is a formal verb, common in news, navigation, and professional discussions about plans and goals.
- Grammatically, it usually follows the pattern 'Subject + 偏离 + Object', often using '了' for completed actions.
- Key collocations include 偏离轨道 (deviate from orbit), 偏离主题 (off-topic), and 偏离航线 (off-course).
Using the Particle '了'
Always use '了' after 偏离 if the deviation has already happened. '他偏离了航线' sounds much more complete than '他偏离航线'.
Standard Objects
Memorize the 'Big Four' objects: 主题 (topic), 轨道 (orbit), 航线 (route), 目标 (goal). You will use these 90% of the time.
Formal Register
Use 偏离 in writing and formal speeches. In casual conversation with friends, '走歪了' or '跑题了' is usually better.
The Rising Second Tone
Make sure the second syllable 'lí' clearly rises. If it sounds flat, it might be confused with 'li' (inside).
Example
飞机的航线偏离了预定轨道。
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吸收
A1To absorb; to take in.
海拔
B1The height of an object or place above sea level.
属性
B1A quality or feature that is typical of or belongs to something or someone.
生物
B1Any living thing, or the study of living organisms. Basic term for IELTS biology-related reading passages.
模糊
A1Blurry; vague; indistinct.
呼吸
A1To breathe; respiration.
燃烧
A1To burn; combustion.
计算
A1To calculate; to compute; to determine a value mathematically.
推算
B1To calculate, estimate, or figure out something using data, logic, or mathematical methods. It implies a process of reasoning from known facts to unknown values.
校准
B1To calibrate, adjust, or check for accuracy against a standard. It is used for instruments, data, or plans.