may vary between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may vary between" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to express that something can change or differs within a certain range or set of values. For example, "The cost of the product may vary between $20 and $50."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The default cache location may vary between systems.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The default credentials cache may vary between systems.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

*Our weekly schedule may vary between, and even during, semesters.

Columbia University

Numbers may vary between two or three or four.

Cornell University

However, esthetic satisfaction may vary between the 2 groups.

The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry

It is well known that the differentiation of hMSCs may vary between different donors.

Nature

These fees may vary between apartment complexes, so plan a nice buffer for these items.

Stanford University

The best way to develop your leadership personality may vary between individuals, but what is clear is that personality matters.

The Guardian

Indeed, products from the same company may vary between production runs.

Composites in Infrastructure - Building New Markets

However, the values for the investigated mylonites may vary between low and high.

Engineering Geology

Consequently, home ranges and habitat selection may vary between individuals of different sex and reproductive conditions.

Forest Ecology and Management

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may vary between", ensure you clearly define the parameters or groups between which the variation occurs to avoid ambiguity. For example, "Prices for this service may vary between different providers" is more precise than "Prices may vary".

Common error

Avoid using "may vary between" without specifying the scope or context of the variation. Saying "Results may vary between participants" is less effective if you don't clarify which participants or conditions cause the variation. Adding specifics enhances clarity and avoids vagueness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may vary between" functions as a modifier, indicating that a certain characteristic or attribute is subject to change or difference across different entities or categories. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and serves to express variability. The examples show its use in academic, scientific, and general contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

35%

Academia

25%

News & Media

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may vary between" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to express differences or fluctuations across distinct entities or conditions. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage is widespread across academic, scientific, news, and general contexts, reflecting its adaptability and broad applicability. To ensure clarity, define the scope of variation when using this phrase, and be mindful of the difference between "between" (typically for two items) and "among" (for three or more), though modern usage often accepts "between" even with more than two. Common alternatives include "can differ among", "can fluctuate between", and "can range from". Ultimately, understanding the nuances of "may vary between" enhances precision and effectiveness in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

can differ among

This alternative uses "differ" instead of "vary", emphasizing the distinct differences that can exist.

can fluctuate between

This alternative highlights the oscillating nature of the variation.

can range from

This alternative emphasizes the scope of possible values or conditions.

can differ depending on

This alternative focuses on the conditional aspect of the variation, suggesting it depends on specific factors.

can be inconsistent across

This alternative suggests a lack of uniformity.

are not uniform among

This alternative emphasizes the absence of uniformity across different entities.

are subject to change among

This alternative highlights the susceptibility to alterations within a group.

demonstrate differences among

This alternative emphasizes the observed distinctions across different instances.

exhibit variability across

This alternative focuses on the variability or diversity seen across different elements.

show disparities amongst

This alternative indicates inequalities or distinct gaps between different aspects.

FAQs

How can I use "may vary between" in a sentence?

Use "may vary between" to indicate that something can differ or change across different entities or conditions. For example, "The side effects of the medication "may vary between" patients."

What are some alternatives to "may vary between"?

Alternatives include "can differ among", "can fluctuate between", or "can range from". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. For example, instead of saying "The results "may vary between" groups", you could say "The results "can differ among" groups".

Is it correct to say "may varies between"?

No, the correct form is "may vary between". "Vary" should be used in its base form after the modal verb "may".

What is the difference between "may vary between" and "may vary among"?

While similar, "between" is typically used for two distinct items or groups, while "among" is used for three or more. However, in modern usage, "between" is often acceptable even with more than two, especially when the items are clearly distinguished. For example, you might say "The flavors "may vary between" the three options."