lacks variety

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lacks variety" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is monotonous or does not have enough different elements or options. Example: "The menu at the restaurant lacks variety, offering only a few dishes to choose from."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

But what resulted from this striving for intimacy is a score that lacks variety.

The New York Times - Arts

By that I don't mean that "Matilda" lacks variety, musically or otherwise.

The New York Times

Armitage has the edge for sheer linguistic vigour, but his reading lacks variety of pitch and pace.

The Guardian - Books

The major weakness is in the vocal writing, which lacks variety and fails to create strong distinctions among the characters.

The New Yorker

For now, Wickmayer is 23rd with an impressive, aggressive power game that nonetheless lacks variety and adaptability.

The New York Times - Sports

Her vocal power is impressive, but as an album it lacks variety; in places, the glossy retro-soul arrangements start to sound the same.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

His rhythm lacked variety.

The New York Times - Arts

That isn't to say they lacked variety, in terms of volume or color.

The New York Times - Arts

The collection he showed on Wednesday lacked variety — can he expand on his vision?

The New York Times

To some ears, this approach might lack variety, but there are multiple ways to dice "barely there".

The Guardian - Music

Oscar and Willian both wanted to come inside and combine with Cesc Fàbregas, but Chelsea's play was too congested and lacked variety.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lacks variety", ensure the context clearly indicates what is missing diversity. For instance, specify whether it's a menu, a musical piece, or an argument that "lacks variety".

Common error

Avoid using "lacks variety" repeatedly within a short paragraph. Vary your language by using synonyms like "monotonous" or "undifferentiated" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lacks variety" functions as a verb phrase, where 'lacks' is the verb indicating a deficiency and 'variety' is the noun representing the missing element. As seen in Ludwig, this phrase is often used to express that something is missing diversity or range.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lacks variety" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to indicate a deficiency in diversity, range, or interest. Ludwig AI indicates that it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, but also appears in scientific and general sources. While generally neutral in register, context dictates the specific nuance. When using this phrase, ensure the subject of the phrase is clearly identified and consider alternative expressions like "is monotonous" or "is lacking diversity" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is lacking diversity

Directly points out the absence of a mix of different elements.

offers little diversity

Focuses on the limited amount of different options or elements.

is monotonous

Emphasizes the lack of change and the repetitive nature.

is short on variation

Highlights the deficit of different elements.

is repetitive

Highlights the recurring nature without sufficient variation.

is wanting in variation

Highlights the absence of changes or modifications.

is uniform

Focuses on the sameness and absence of distinct elements.

is undifferentiated

Suggests a lack of clear distinctions or differences.

demonstrates a paucity of variation

Emphasizes the scarcity of different elements with a more formal tone.

is limited in scope

Indicates a restricted range or extent.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "lacks variety"?

You can use alternatives such as "is monotonous", "is repetitive", or "is lacking diversity" depending on the context.

What does it mean when something "lacks variety"?

It means that something is missing diversity or a range of different elements, making it potentially uninteresting or ineffective. For example, if a diet "lacks variety", it may not provide all the necessary nutrients.

Is it better to say "lacks variety" or "lacks diversity"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "lacks diversity" might be more appropriate when referring to a range of different types, while "lacks variety" can refer to a more general absence of change or interest. The better choice depends on the specific context.

Can "lacks variety" be used to describe a person?

Yes, although it is more common to describe things like menus, musical pieces, or arguments. When describing a person, it suggests they are predictable or uninteresting. Consider alternatives like "unimaginative" or "unoriginal" for people.