but it varies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "but it varies" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something is not consistent and can change depending on different factors or circumstances. Example: "The temperature in this region can be quite unpredictable; it can be hot during the day, but it varies significantly at night."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"But it varies".

The New York Times - Travel

But it varies quite a bit.

Cornell University

The preferred choice is usually grappa but it varies between regions.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That remains fairly constant in adulthood, but it varies from one person to the next.

The New York Times - Tech

Overall customer satisfaction with cellphone service has been rising, but it varies among cities and carriers.

The New York Times - Tech

But it varies from about 0.0255 to 0.0775, according to Nasa.

The Guardian

Oh, but it varies, not only colour but also in shape and size.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Broken ribs typically take about six weeks to heal, but it varies from case to case.

The New York Times

This is usually towards the end of the day, but it varies according to the supermarket.

The Guardian - Money

The pattern of molt typically is orderly, but it varies widely between species.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Most people have some musical ability, but it varies far more than their ability to speak.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "but it varies" to introduce nuances or exceptions after making a general statement. This helps to provide a more accurate and complete picture.

Common error

Avoid using "but it varies" as a standalone statement. Always specify what factors cause the variation to maintain clarity and relevance for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "but it varies" functions as a transitional phrase, introducing a qualification or exception to a preceding statement. It signals that while a general trend or condition exists, it is not universally applicable. Ludwig confirms the expression is correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

28%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

2%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "but it varies" is a versatile expression used to introduce nuances and exceptions to general statements. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and widely employed across diverse contexts, from news articles and scientific publications to encyclopedias and general writing. The analysis indicates that the phrase serves as a transitional element, signaling a qualification or contrast to what has been previously stated. It's crucial to provide context when using this phrase, specifying the factors contributing to the variation. While incredibly common, overusing it without clarity can diminish its effectiveness. Alternatives such as "however it differs" and "yet it fluctuates" offer similar meanings with slight tonal variations. In summary, understanding the appropriate contexts and providing sufficient detail will ensure effective communication when using this phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

however, it differs

Replaces "but" with "however" and "varies" with "differs", offering a more formal tone.

yet, it fluctuates

Substitutes "but" with "yet" and "varies" with "fluctuates", highlighting irregular movement or change.

though, it is not consistent

Replaces "but" with "though" and "varies" with a more explicit description of inconsistency.

nonetheless, it is variable

Uses "nonetheless" for a stronger contrast and replaces "varies" with "variable", emphasizing the capacity to change.

still, it is subject to change

Employs "still" to indicate continuation despite a contrast and replaces "varies" with a focus on being changeable.

conversely, it is not uniform

Introduces a direct opposition with "conversely" and emphasizes a lack of uniformity instead of variation.

in contrast, it is diverse

Highlights opposition with "in contrast" and suggests a wide range of differences with "diverse".

on the other hand, it is not fixed

Presents an alternative perspective using "on the other hand" and focuses on the lack of a set or permanent state.

that being said, it is mutable

Uses "that being said" to transition to a contrasting point and replaces "varies" with "mutable", indicating susceptibility to change.

however, there are exceptions

Emphasizes deviations from a general rule using "exceptions" instead of direct variation.

FAQs

How can I use "but it varies" in a sentence?

Use "but it varies" to indicate that something is not consistent and depends on specific conditions or factors. For example: "The cost of living is generally high, but it varies by city".

What are some alternatives to "but it varies"?

You can use alternatives like "however it differs", "yet it fluctuates", or "though it is not consistent" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "but it varies"?

Yes, the phrase "but it varies" is grammatically correct and commonly used in English to introduce a contrast or exception to a general statement.

What does "but it varies" mean?

"But it varies" means that something is not constant or uniform; it changes depending on different conditions or circumstances.