B2verb1K

Vary

UK /["/ˈveəri/","/ˈveəriz/","/ˈveərid/","/ˈveəriɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈveri//ˈværi/","/ˈveriz//ˈværiz/","/ˈverid//ˈværid/","/ˈveriɪŋ//ˈværiɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be different from each other in size, shape, etc.

In simple words: to change or change something

Examples

  • You should vary your diet to include a wide range of nutrients.
  • The teacher encouraged us to vary our study methods to find what works best.
  • The temperature can vary significantly between seasons.
  • To improve the dish, you can vary the spices used in the recipe.
  • His mood tends to vary from day to day.

Usage notes

Use 'vary' when discussing differences in amount, degree, or type. It is neutral and suitable for both spoken and written English, but may not fit in highly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

vary + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'variety' of flavors – they change and offer differences.

Collocations

  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • enormously
  • can
  • may
  • be likely to
  • according to
  • by
  • depending on
  • vary over time
  • vary with time
  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • enormously
  • can
  • may
  • be likely to
  • according to
  • by
  • depending on
  • vary over time
  • vary with time
  • considerably
  • dramatically
  • enormously
  • can
  • may
  • be likely to
  • according to
  • by
  • depending on
  • vary over time
  • vary with time

Synonyms

  • differ
  • diverge
  • fluctuate
  • oscillate
  • alternate

Antonyms

  • standardize
  • equalize

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'very'; don't say 'I very my plans'.
  • Using 'vary' without an object; always indicate what is changing.
  • Misplacing the subject; 'The temperatures vary' not 'The vary temperatures'.