is at variance

USAGE SUMMARY

"is at variance" is a correct phrase in written English.
It means there is a disagreement or difference between two things or ideas. Example: The findings of the two studies are at variance, with one concluding that caffeine improves memory and the other showing no effect.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The prevailing view is at variance.

The New Yorker

The actual biography of Uncle Ben is at variance with his fanciful new identity.

The New York Times

Forensic evidence is at variance with parts of the officer's account, the inquiry has heard.

The Guardian

Again, this is at variance with the evidence.

The Guardian - Opinion

This conclusion, however, is at variance with most of the biblical and archaeological evidence.

Britannica

It is at variance with the principle that only a pressing social need can defeat freedom of expression'.

The Guardian

This result is at variance with textbook models, where the relationship is assumed to be linear.

Biophysical Journal

"It certainly is at variance with the way it was first reported," said Mr. Carr.

The New York Times

The widespread perception that women over 60 are too frail or fatigued to take much of an interest in fashion is at variance with the facts.

The New York Times - Style

That imposed pattern is at variance with the most urgent human needs; indeed it is responsible for the oppressive conditions from which those unfulfilled needs arise.

The New Yorker

The idea that Ellis was some kind of scapegoat, a teacher jailed because he gave up his free time for his students, is at variance with the facts.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is at variance", ensure that the subject and the point of comparison are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify what is at variance with what.

Common error

Avoid using "is at variance" when a simpler word like "differs" or "contradicts" would suffice. The phrase carries a slightly more formal tone and is best suited for situations where a more nuanced or sophisticated comparison is needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is at variance" functions as a copular verb phrase indicating a state of disagreement or inconsistency. It connects a subject with a predicate adjective, describing a condition where two or more things are not in agreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, this is a standard usage in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is at variance" effectively communicates disagreement or inconsistency, primarily in formal and scientific contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used. While alternatives like "differs from" or "contradicts" exist, "is at variance" carries a more nuanced tone, suitable for sophisticated comparisons. It's important to clearly define the elements being compared to avoid ambiguity. The phrase is commonly found in Science, News & Media, and Formal & Business publications, demonstrating its broad applicability across authoritative sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

differs from

Focuses on the difference between two or more things.

contradicts

Implies a direct opposition or inconsistency.

is inconsistent with

Highlights the lack of alignment or agreement.

is in disagreement with

Emphasizes the lack of consensus or accord.

clashes with

Suggests a strong conflict or opposition.

diverges from

Indicates a departure or deviation from a standard or norm.

is at odds with

Expresses a state of conflict or opposition.

departs from

Suggests a move away from a previous state or position.

is at odds

Short form focusing the conflict.

is dissimilar to

Highlights the lack of similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "is at variance" in a sentence?

The phrase "is at variance" indicates a disagreement or inconsistency between two things. For example, "The scientist's hypothesis "is at variance" with the experimental data."

What are some alternatives to "is at variance"?

You can use alternatives such as "differs from", "contradicts", or "is inconsistent with" depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "is at variance" and "differs from"?

"Is at variance" suggests a more significant disagreement or contradiction, while "differs from" simply indicates a distinction or dissimilarity. Use "is at variance" when there is a conflict or inconsistency.

Is "is at variance with" grammatically correct?

Yes, "is at variance with" is grammatically correct and commonly used. It clarifies the object or standard against which something is at odds. For example, "His statement "is at variance" with the facts."