is variegated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is variegated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a variety of colors or patterns, often in reference to plants, fabrics, or designs. Example: "The leaves of the plant are variegated, displaying shades of green and yellow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Like all snobberies, London-centrism is variegated.

The Guardian

Each block is variegated in its surface treatment, but somewhat pointlessly so.

The Guardian - Arts

Mr. Dillon's sound world is variegated and changeable: sudden crescendos evaporate in pianissimo chords; quiet pizzicato passages unfold into sequences of descending slides that evoke whining, at times, and exoticism elsewhere.

The New York Times - Arts

And unlike the more traditional development across Perry Road, which presents an unbroken line of two-car garages and putty-colored facades, SOL is variegated and colorful, and has a lightness that makes it look pleasantly toylike.

The New York Times

The buildings here include hotels as well as shops, and the architecture is variegated with what might be called developers' picturesque, the dissembling of the fact that this is a single work of a single company with random changes of cladding and form.

The Guardian - Arts

But some proponents of grounding also claim that grounding is variegated.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

There are variegated forms of London plane.

Encyclopedia Britannica

There also are variegated, dwarf, and many-flowered varieties.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He is always looking to fill a niche, and one was variegated agaves.

The New York Times

Most important is "Lady Plymouth" which, being variegated, doesn't strike as readily as the green kinds.

Independent

The tiles are variegated and of different ages and subject to every kind of manipulation and juxtaposition.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing the visual appearance of plants, use "is variegated" to indicate that the leaves or other parts have different colors in patterns, which adds visual interest and uniqueness.

Common error

Avoid using "is variegated" to describe abstract concepts or situations where 'diverse' or 'varied' would be more appropriate. "Variegated" specifically applies to visual patterns of different colors. For example, do not say "His opinions are variegated"; instead, use "His opinions are diverse".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is variegated" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something exhibits a variety of colors or patterns. It is commonly used to describe physical attributes, particularly of plants or materials. Ludwig examples confirm this usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

33%

Encyclopedias

14%

Less common in

Wiki

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is variegated" is a descriptive term indicating that something exhibits a variety of colors or patterns. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in various contexts, particularly in describing physical attributes. While alternatives like "is multicolored" or "is patterned" exist, "is variegated" carries a specific nuance related to visual variety. It's important to avoid misusing it in abstract contexts where 'diverse' or 'varied' would be more appropriate. With a neutral register, the phrase is commonly found in science, news media, and encyclopedias, making it a valuable addition to your descriptive vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is multicolored

Focuses specifically on the presence of multiple colors.

is patterned

Highlights the presence of a design or arrangement of elements.

is diverse

Emphasizes variety and difference within a group or set.

is varied

Highlights the presence of differences and modifications.

is heterogeneous

Emphasizes the non-uniform composition or structure.

is mottled

Suggests irregular spots or patches of different colors.

is dappled

Implies a pattern of spots or patches of light and shade.

is checkered

Suggests a pattern of alternating light and dark squares.

is tessellated

Focuses on a pattern of small, flat pieces fitted together.

is polychromatic

Refers to the use of many colors.

FAQs

How can I use "is variegated" in a sentence?

Use "is variegated" to describe something that features different colors or patterns, especially in leaves or other natural objects. For example, "The garden's beauty is enhanced by the many plants whose foliage "is variegated"".

What's the difference between "is variegated" and "is mottled"?

"Is variegated" indicates a pattern of different colors, whereas "is mottled" implies irregular spots or patches of color. Therefore, if the effect you're looking for is "is mottled" you may want to consider that it does not denote a specific arrangement but instead denotes a more random pattern.

What can I say instead of "is variegated"?

Depending on the context, alternatives to "is variegated" include "is multicolored", "is patterned", or "is diverse". However, consider the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "is variegated"?

It's generally inappropriate to use "is variegated" when describing non-visual characteristics or abstract ideas. Terms like "varied" or "diverse" are better suited for describing a range of opinions or experiences.