Which word most accurately denotes a deviation from the norm?

• A. Aberration
• B. Anachronism
• C. Alacrity
• D. Belie

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is spotting a word that means something that deviates from what’s typical or expected. Aberration directly captures that sense: it refers to a departure from the norm, something unusual or irregular that stands out from the ordinary. You can use it for both people or things when they don’t follow the usual pattern—like an unexpected weather event or a data point that doesn’t fit the trend.

Anachronism is about time—the placement of something in an era where it doesn’t belong. Alacrity describes brisk readiness or eager promptness. Belie means to give a false impression or to reveal something indirectly by misrepresentation. These don't convey the sense of departing from the norm the way aberration does.

So the word that best denotes a deviation from the norm is the one that signals an unusual departure from what’s expected.