a variable amount

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a variable amount" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an amount that can change or is not fixed, often in contexts like finance, measurements, or quantities. Example: "The project budget will depend on a variable amount of funding from different sources."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The macrophages showed a variable amount of cytoplasmic inclusions and considerable variability in size.

Environmental Health Perspectives

With a variable-interval schedule, reinforcement is given after a variable amount of time.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The operator allows you to pass a variable amount of arguments to a function.

The New York Times

The lower breast and belly are white, with a variable amount of narrow brown or rufous barring.

Cornell University

But, the Special Committee was uncomfortable with having to issue a variable amount of shares in the Merger.

Harvard University

Some retirees will expect a specific monthly payout while others will favor a variable amount, based on what the portfolio generates.

The New York Times

A variable amount of time (approximately five minutes) was allowed to participants to relax, get ready for the experiment, and familiarize themselves with the experimental setup.

Nature

The interior of red blood cells (RBCs) contains a variable amount of cholesterol and phospholipids bound to haemoglobin (Hb).

Clinical Biochemistry

Mitred Parakeet is a large Psittacara, and is mostly green with a variable amount of red on the head and neck, and on the tibial feathers.

Cornell University

The player has the ability to enter a bankroll at the start of game play, and can bet a variable amount of money on each hand.

Cornell University

The Santa Marta Parakeet is mostly green, with orange and red underwing coverts, blue primaries, and a variable amount of red on the belly.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a variable amount", ensure that the context clearly defines what factors cause the amount to vary. Provide specific examples or conditions to clarify the variability.

Common error

Avoid using "a variable amount" without specifying a range or influencing factors. This can lead to ambiguity and lack of clarity. Always provide additional context to define the parameters of variability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a variable amount" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It denotes an unspecified quantity that is subject to change or fluctuation. According to Ludwig, this usage is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

33%

Academia

28%

News & Media

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

13%

Formal & Business

8%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a variable amount" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies a quantity subject to change depending on the situation, according to Ludwig. It's commonly found in academic, scientific, and news-related contexts. When using this phrase, it's essential to provide sufficient context, specifying the factors influencing the variability to avoid ambiguity. Ludwig's examples show how this phrase appears across different domains, reinforcing its versatile applicability but stressing the importance of context for clear communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fluctuating quantity

Replaces "amount" with "quantity" emphasizing the changing nature.

a varying degree

Shifts focus to the level or extent of something rather than a measurable quantity.

an adjustable quantity

Highlights the capability to be adjusted or modified.

a changeable portion

Substitutes "amount" with "portion", implying a part that is subject to alteration.

an inconsistent quantity

Suggests a lack of uniformity or regularity.

a different measure

Highlights the aspect of differing sizes or quantities.

a diverse quantity

Replaces "variable" with "diverse", emphasizing variety.

a modified portion

Implies that the quantity is being deliberately changed.

an altered amount

Focuses on the fact that the quantity has been changed from a previous state.

a shifting quantity

Emphasizes the change from one amount to another over time.

FAQs

How can I use "a variable amount" in a sentence?

Use "a variable amount" when referring to a quantity that is not fixed and can change based on different factors. For example: "The success of the project depends on "a variable amount" of funding received."

What are some alternatives to "a variable amount"?

You can use alternatives like "a fluctuating quantity", "a varying degree", or "an adjustable quantity" depending on the specific context. Each carries a slightly different nuance.

Which is correct, "a variable amount" or "a varied amount"?

"A variable amount" is generally preferred when referring to a quantity that can change. "A varied amount" might be suitable in contexts where you are emphasizing the diversity of amounts, but is less common.

What's the difference between "a variable amount" and "a different amount"?

"A variable amount" implies that the amount can change within a certain range or according to specific conditions. "A different amount" simply indicates that the amount is not the same as some other amount, without necessarily implying variability over time or under different circumstances.