A2noun 1K

Variety

UK //vəˈraɪəti// US //vəˈraɪəti// Pronunciation

Definition

A range of different things or types.

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In simple words: Different types or kinds of something.

Examples

• There is a great variety of fruits in the market.
• This novel offers a variety of characters and perspectives.
• We should try to add some variety to our meals.
• The festival features a variety of performances.
• She enjoys a variety of hobbies, including painting and hiking.

Usage notes

Use 'variety' when talking about different types in a group. It's appropriate in both spoken and written English.

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Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'variety' as 'varied types'—they're different!

Collocations

• variety of options
• wide variety
• great variety
• variety show

Synonyms

• diversity
• assortment
• variation
• mix

Antonyms

• uniformity
• similarity

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'various', which is an adjective.
• Using 'variety' with uncountable nouns instead of countable.
• Incorrect pluralization, thinking 'varieties' is less common.