diversity

/daɪˈvɜːrsəti/
variety within a group

The company values diversity in its workforce, including people of different ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds.

The company appreciates having a wide range of people with varied ages, ethnicities, and experiences.


formal

The state of having many different forms, types, or elements; variety.

The biodiversity of the rainforest is unmatched.

The rainforest contains an exceptional variety of plant and animal life.

The school promotes diversity in its student body.

The school encourages a student population with varied backgrounds and identities.

Often used in social, biological, and organizational contexts to emphasize inclusivity and range.

formal

A range of different people or things; a mix.

The diversity of opinions in the debate was refreshing.

The debate featured a wide range of differing viewpoints.

Can refer to demographic, cultural, or ideological variety.

Collocations

cultural diversityvariety of cultural backgroundsbiological diversityvariety of plant and animal speciesworkforce diversityvariety of employees in a company

Related Phrases

diversity and inclusionphrase
a combined approach to recognizing and valuing differences in people
diversity trainingphrase
educational programs to promote awareness of differences in the workplace

Pro Tip

Avoid overusing 'diversity'

Use 'diversity' when you mean meaningful variety, not just 'many.' For example, 'a diverse menu' implies a wide range of options, not just a large number.

Gold Rule

Context matters

The meaning of 'diversity' depends on context—biological diversity refers to species variety, while workforce diversity refers to demographic differences.

Word Origin

From Old French *diversité* (modern French *diversité*), from Latin *diversitas*, from *diversus* ('turned in different directions'), from *divertere* ('to turn aside'), from *dis-* ('apart') + *vertere* ('to turn').

Usage Notes

Common in discussions about inclusion, ecology, and multiculturalism. Avoid using it as a vague synonym for 'many'—it implies meaningful variety, not just quantity.

Word Breakdown

divers-
different, varied
root
+
-ity
state or quality of
suffix
English Dictionary