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variety
/ˈvɛr.i.ə.ti/
a number of different types
The store offers a wide variety of fresh fruits.
The shop has many different kinds of fresh fruit available for customers.
general
The quality or state of being different or diverse; the existence of different forms or types.
There is a great variety of opinions on this topic.
Many different viewpoints exist regarding this subject.
Often used to describe the range of options or differences within a group.
general
A particular kind or type of something.
This is a rare variety of orchid.
This is an uncommon type of orchid plant.
Used when specifying a specific subtype within a broader category.
Collocations
wide varietya large range of different itemsgreat varietya significant number of different typesvariety ofa selection of different things
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Countable vs. Uncountable
'Variety' can be both countable and uncountable. Use 'a variety' (singular) to mean a range of things. Use 'varieties' (plural) to mean specific distinct types (e.g., 'many varieties of apples').
Gold Rule
Preposition Usage
Always use 'variety OF' when listing what is varied. Incorrect: 'a variety in books'. Correct: 'a variety of books'.
Word Origin
From Old French 'varieté', from Latin 'varietas' meaning 'diversity, changeableness', from 'varius' meaning 'variegated, spotted'.
Usage Notes
Use 'variety' when emphasizing the existence of different types. It is often followed by 'of'. Do not confuse with 'various', which is an adjective (e.g., 'a variety of books' vs. 'various books').
Word Breakdown
var-
different, changing
root-iety
state or quality of
suffixEnglish Dictionary