What does variation mean?
Variation is the word we use when similar things are not exactly alike. It can refer to a single difference between two examples, such as a variation in leaf shape or pronunciation, or to the overall range of differences found within a group. In scientific and statistical contexts, it describes how measurements, characteristics, or behaviours differ from one another, while in biology it is central to the study of inherited differences among living things. The word can also identify a version of a theme or form that departs from its original. Variation is useful because it is broad enough for general discussion but precise enough to point to differences rather than simply describing change itself. It appears regularly in discussions of nature, language, culture, design, and everyday life, making it a useful word for both precise analysis and accessible explanation.
nounA difference between two or more things, especially between instances of the same kind of thing; the extent or range of such differences.
- A difference in form, quality, quantity, or behaviour between two or more instances of something.
- The extent or range of differences within a group or over time.
- In statistics, the amount by which individual observations differ from one another or from an expected value.
- In biology, differences in inherited traits among members of a population or species.
- A version of a theme, design, or other form that differs from the original.
"The variation in the leaves' shapes was striking, with each plant developing its own distinctive pattern."
"There is considerable variation in how quickly these plants begin to grow."
"The recording includes a slow variation on the main theme."
The noun can be countable or uncountable. Countable plural forms refer to individual differences, while uncountable use is common in phrases such as 'variation in temperature'.
"The report identifies several important variations in the data."
From the Latin idea of being 'variegated,' variation describes the differences that make a uniform system alive and ever-changing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does variation come from?
The word entered English through French variation, ultimately from the Latin noun variationem, which was formed from variare, meaning 'to make varied' or 'to change'. Latin variare was related to varius, meaning 'variegated', 'different', or 'various'. The same root also gives English words such as variable, variety, and variegated.
Related word forms
How variation is actually used
Generally neutral in register and common in academic, scientific, statistical, and biological writing, while also sounding natural in everyday descriptions of differences and changes.
Easily confused with variation
Variation usually refers to a particular difference or range of differences, whereas variability more often describes the general tendency of something to vary.