discrepanza

Discrepanza is a noun used in Italian to denote a lack of agreement or consistency between two or more elements. It can refer to numerical differences, contradictions between statements, or mismatches in records. The term is widely used across disciplines to indicate that a result or account does not align with expectations, and it often signals the need for reconciliation, clarification, or correction. The word derives from Latin discrepantia, formed from dis- meaning apart and crepare meaning to crack or rattle, and is cognate with the English discrepancy.

In statistics and data analysis, discrepanze describe differences between measurements, datasets, or model outputs that cannot be explained by random variation alone. In accounting and auditing, discrepanze identify mismatches between ledgers, invoices, or bank statements. In journalism, research, or litigation, they refer to inconsistencies between various sources or testimonies. In linguistics or textual criticism, discrepancies may exist between manuscript versions or translations.

Usage notes can distinguish between minor and material discrepancies, though Italian conventions vary. Related terms include discordanza and incongruenza, which express broader ideas of disagreement or incongruity. Discrepanza is commonly contrasted with concordanza (agreement) in analytic or evaluative contexts.

See also: discrepancy, inconsistency, mismatch.