Odchylnost

Odchylnost is a Czech noun meaning deviation or divergence from a norm or standard. It is used across disciplines to describe irregularities, departures, or anomalies in form, measurement, behavior, or process. The term can denote a neutral observation, such as a geometric deviation or a statistical deviation from a target, or carry a negative connotation when referring to social behavior that departs from accepted norms.

In mathematics and statistics, odchylnost describes how far a quantity is from a reference value, such as the deviation of a data point from the mean (odchylka) or from a target. In geometry, it can describe angular or linear deviation. In engineering and manufacturing, odchylnost relates to tolerances and acceptable deviations from design specifications.

In biology and medicine, it can refer to morphological or developmental deviations from typical characteristics or patient norms. In sociology and criminology, odchylnost is used to describe deviant behavior that violates social norms; the term is often discussed alongside concepts such as deviace (deviance) and social control.

Etymology: odchylnost derives from the verb odchýlit se ("to deviate"), with prefix od- indicating separation or divergence.

See also: odchylka, odchylovat se, deviace, deviantní chování.