Definition

1. Noun:
   • The quality or state of being different or diverse; the absence of monotony or sameness: "Variety" refers to a condition involving many different types, forms, or elements, which is often considered interesting or pleasant.
   • A particular type or kind of something; a category: "Variety" can denote a specific class or sort within a broader group, distinguished by particular characteristics.
   • (Biology) A taxonomic rank below subspecies: In biology, a "variety" is a group within a species that has distinct, heritable differences.
   • A collection or assortment of different things: "Variety" can refer to a number or collection of different items or types.
   • A form of theatrical entertainment consisting of a series of short, unrelated performances: A "variety show" is a performance featuring acts such as comedy, music, and dance.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She loves the variety of cultures in the city. (She loves the diversity of cultures.)
  • This store sells over ten varieties of apples. (This store sells over ten different kinds of apples.)
  • The biologist studied a new variety of rose. (The biologist studied a new biological subtype of rose.)
  • He faced a variety of challenges in his new job. (He faced an assortment of different challenges.)
  • We watched a hilarious variety show on television. (We watched a show with many different acts.)

Advanced Usage

• "For a/variety's sake": In order to avoid monotony and introduce diversity.
  • He took a different route to work for variety's sake.
• "A variety of": Used to indicate an assortment or number of different things. This is a very common collocation.
  • The conference attracted a wide variety of experts.
• In horticulture and biology: The term is used formally in naming.
  • The plant is known as Brassica oleracea var. capitata (the variety 'capitata' is cabbage).

Variants and Related Words

• Varietal (adj): Relating to or denoting a variety, especially a biological variety or a wine made from a single grape variety.
  • This is a varietal wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.
• Varied (adj): Incorporating or showing diversity.
  • She has a varied and interesting career.
• Vary (verb): To change or be different.
  • Prices vary depending on the season.

Synonyms

• Diversity: A range of different things.
• Assortment: A mixed collection of items.
• Array: An impressive display or range.
• Multiplicity: A large number and variety of something.

Related Phrases

• Variety is the spice of life (Idiom): New and exciting experiences make life more interesting.
  • He tries a new hobby every year; he believes variety is the spice of life.
• Variety show (Compound Noun): A theatrical entertainment with successive unrelated acts.
  • The old variety show featured singers, comedians, and acrobats.

Noun

1. a difference that is usually pleasant
   • he goes to France for variety
   • it is a refreshing change to meet a woman mechanic
2. a category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality
   • sculpture is a form of art
   • what kinds of desserts are there?
3. a show consisting of a series of short unrelated performances
4. (biology) a taxonomic category consisting of members of a species that differ from others of the same species in minor but heritable characteristics
   • varieties are frequently recognized in botany
5. noticeable heterogeneity
   • a diversity of possibilities
   • the range and variety of his work is amazing
6. a collection containing a variety of sorts of things
   • a great assortment of cars was on display
   • he had a variety of disorders
   • a veritable smorgasbord of religions