discrepancy
A difference between things that should be the same or match.
Examples
In a meeting
“There's a discrepancy between the invoice and the purchase order.”
Over coffee
“I noticed a discrepancy between what he told me and what he told you.”
Why this word
difference
discrepancy emphasizes an inconsistency or conflict between things expected to match, while difference is neutral variation
inconsistency
discrepancy suggests a specific measurable gap between two accounts or values, while inconsistency is broader lack of uniformity
gap
discrepancy highlights a problematic mismatch requiring investigation, while gap is a neutral space between things
Usage tip
Implies something is wrong because two things that should agree don't. Common with numbers, accounts, and statements.
Etymology
Latin discrepantia — dis (apart) + crepare (to rattle, creak), literally 'sounding differently'
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Related words
diagnose
To identify the cause or nature of a problem through examination.
fundamental
Forming a necessary base or core; of central importance.
verify
To confirm that something is true, accurate, or valid
replicate
Make an exact copy or repeat a process identically
extrapolate
Extend known information to predict unknown outcomes
distinguish
To recognize or identify the difference between things