rates vary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "rates vary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing differences in prices, fees, or costs across different services, products, or situations. Example: "When booking a hotel, it's important to remember that rates vary depending on the season and availability."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Circumcision rates vary widely.

The New York Times

Interest rates vary.

The New York Times

But survival rates vary greatly.

The Economist

Pulse rates vary from person to person.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This is because rates vary between places.

The Economist

Title insurance rates vary considerably by state.

The New York Times

These rates vary considerably among species.

The New York Times

Rates vary, depending on the season.

The New York Times - Travel

Those rates vary widely across the country.

The New York Times

HPV vaccination rates vary dramatically by state.

The New York Times

Rates vary from country to country.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "rates vary", specify the factors that influence the variation. For example, "Rates vary depending on the season" provides more context than simply saying "Rates vary".

Common error

Avoid using "rates vary" without clarifying the conditions causing the variation. This lack of context can leave the reader confused about the specific circumstances affecting the rates.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "rates vary" primarily functions as a statement indicating that certain values, often monetary, are not fixed and are subject to change. Ludwig examples show it used in contexts ranging from insurance to hotel pricing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "rates vary" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to indicate that prices, costs, or levels are not fixed and depend on specific conditions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is widely used across various contexts. To enhance clarity, it's best practice to specify the factors influencing the variation. While "rates vary" is versatile, remember to provide context to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives include "prices differ" or "costs fluctuate", but the key is to ensure the replacement maintains the intended meaning. With its frequent usage and clear meaning, "rates vary" remains a valuable phrase for conveying variability in prices and costs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prices differ

Focuses specifically on monetary values and their lack of uniformity.

costs fluctuate

Highlights the unpredictable up-and-down movement of expenses.

charges are not uniform

Emphasizes the lack of a standard or consistent fee.

fees are variable

Highlights the adaptability of fees depending on specific conditions.

values fluctuate

Focuses on the changes in worth or importance.

levels differ

Indicates that quantities or degrees are not the same.

amounts are diverse

Stresses the wide range and variety in quantity.

numbers diverge

Emphasizes a deviation or separation in numerical values.

proportions differ

Highlights that the relative sizes or extents are not equal.

figures are inconsistent

Implies a lack of agreement or reliability in numerical data.

FAQs

How can I use "rates vary" in a sentence?

You can use "rates vary" to indicate that prices or costs are not fixed and depend on certain factors. For example, "Hotel "rates vary" depending on the season" or "Insurance "rates vary widely" by state".

What does "rates vary" mean?

"Rates vary" means that the prices, costs, or levels are not constant and are subject to change based on different conditions or circumstances. It implies a lack of uniformity.

Which is correct, "rates vary" or "rate varies"?

"Rates vary" is correct when referring to multiple rates or a general concept of rates changing. "Rate varies" would be used when discussing a single, specific rate that changes.

What can I say instead of "rates vary"?

You can use alternatives like "prices differ", "costs fluctuate", or "fees are variable" depending on the specific context.