vary
gb/vˈɛɹi/ us/vˈɛɹi/
B1
English
~ 1500
Senses
0 senses
Verb
B1
state
1
Differ in amount or type
To be different in amount, size, type, or nature.
Usage pattern:
[something] varies from [something] to [something]
Common mistake:
Learners sometimes confuse 'vary' with 'change'. 'Vary' describes differences between things, while 'change' describes something becoming different over time.
Synonyms
differ (More general; can refer to any kind of difference, not just measurable ones.)
Antonyms
match (Implies being the same in amount, size, type, or nature.)
Collocations
vary greatly
|vary widely
|vary considerably
|vary significantly
Themes
comparison
|measurement
|daily life
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- Prices for the same product can vary greatly between stores.
- Opinions on the matter vary widely among experts.
- The climate varies considerably from region to region.
- Tastes in music vary significantly across generations.
Learner examples
- The price varies in each shop.
- The weather varies in different places.
- People’s ideas vary a lot.
- The size of the rooms varies.
Verb
B1
action
2
Change to make different
To make something different so it is not always the same.
Usage pattern:
to vary [something]
Common mistake:
Learners may use 'change' instead of 'vary'. 'Change' is broader, but 'vary' often suggests intentional diversity or adjustment.
Synonyms
alter (Slightly more formal; implies making adjustments rather than complete change.)
Antonyms
standardize (To make everything the same without variation.)
Collocations
vary the routine
|vary the menu
|vary speed
Themes
daily life
|creativity
|core_vocabulary
Examples
- You should vary your exercise routine to work different muscles.
- The chef likes to vary the menu each week.
- Teachers are encouraged to vary their teaching methods.
Learner examples
- I like to vary my meals.
- We vary our games every day.
- She varies her style of dress.
- He varies his study plan.
Verb
B2
action
3
Change over time in amount or level
To go up and down in amount or level over time.
Synonyms
fluctuate (Often used for continuous, repeated changes, especially in data or measurement.)
Antonyms
remain constant (Stays exactly the same without changing over time.)
Collocations
temperatures vary
|rates vary
|levels vary
Themes
measurement
|science
|core_vocabulary
|time
Examples
- Temperatures can vary dramatically throughout the day.
- The speed of the internet connection varies depending on the time of day.
- Interest rates vary according to market conditions.
Learner examples
- The price of food varies during the year.
- My mood varies with the weather.
- The water level varies after rain.
Grammar
Dictionary form
vary
IPA
GB/vˈɛɹi/
US/vˈɛɹi/
Syllables & stress
vary (1 syllable)
Stress on 1st syllable (vary)
Word forms
Verb
- Base: vary
- 3rd Person Singular: varies
- Present Participle: varying
- Past: varied
Word family
Forms
Related words
variable
adjective B1
variously
adverb
Negative and opposite forms
invariable
adjective C1
invariably
adverb B2
Advanced or less common
Expressions
vary according to
1/vˈɛɹi əkˈɔɹdɪŋ tə/
fixed phrase
Change depending on a factor
To change when something else changes.
Examples
- The rules vary according to the country.
- Your tax rate may vary according to your income.
vary from ... to ...
1/vˈɛɹi fɹˈʌm | tə |/
fixed phrase
Have a range between two points
To be between two amounts, sizes, or types.
Examples
- Ticket prices vary from $10 to $50 depending on the seat.
- Class sizes vary from 15 to 30 students.