1. tending to deviate or causing deviation from a standard, norm, or expected course
Usage: formal or technical usage; often used in linguistics, psychology, or statistics

Examples

• The deviative behavior was noted in the psychological study.
• Deviative syntax patterns can indicate language disorders.
• The deviative results from the control group required further investigation.
• Her deviative approach to problem-solving often produced creative solutions.
• Deviative responses on the test suggested the student needed additional support.