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variation
/ˌveɪriˈeɪʃən/
difference or change
There are many variations in the color of autumn leaves.
Autumn leaves exhibit many different hues.
neutral
A change or difference in condition, amount, or level, typically within certain limits.
The variation in temperature between day and night can be extreme.
Day-night temperature differences can be very large.
There is little variation in the quality of these products.
These products are consistently similar in quality.
Often used in scientific, statistical, or general contexts to describe differences within a group or over time.
neutral
A different or distinct form or version of something.
This software comes in several variations to suit different users.
The software offers multiple editions for diverse user needs.
Common in technology, biology, and product development to describe alternative forms.
technical
In music, a modification of a theme with changes in melody, rhythm, or harmony.
Beethoven's Diabelli Variations showcase his mastery of thematic transformation.
Beethoven's set of variations on Diabelli's theme demonstrates his skill in reworking musical ideas.
Used in classical music theory and composition.
Collocations
genetic variationdifferences in genes within a populationseasonal variationchanges that occur with the seasonsprice variationdifferences in pricing
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish variation from variety
'Variation' emphasizes differences within a group, while 'variety' refers to different types of things (e.g., 'a variety of fruits').
Gold Rule
Use variation for measurable differences
Prefer 'variation' when describing quantifiable differences (e.g., temperature variation, price variation), and 'variety' for types (e.g., a variety of colors).
Word Origin
From Latin *variatio(n-)*, from *variare* 'to vary', from *varius* 'different, varied'.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in both everyday and technical contexts. In statistics, it refers to the spread of data points, while in biology it describes genetic differences.
Word Breakdown
vari-
root meaning 'different'
root-ation
suffix forming nouns of action or result
suffixEnglish Dictionary