this can vary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "this can vary" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is subject to change or can differ depending on certain factors. Here are a few examples: 1. "The amount of rainfall in this region can vary greatly from year to year." 2. "The taste of this dish can vary depending on the level of spice used." 3. "This company's policies can vary between different branches." 4. "The prices of these products can vary according to demand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

This can vary from HR to payroll to CSR.

The Guardian

How much Newcastle city council values this can vary.

The Guardian - Travel

This can vary from a month to two years.

The Guardian - Money

The typical hourly fee is around £10-plus but this can vary greatly.

The Guardian

We know this can vary by race, and doctors should keep it in mind".

The New York Times - Magazine

This can vary and depends on the complexity of your affairs.

The Guardian - Money

They are generally dealt with fairly speedily, although this can vary depending on the workload of the courts.

The Guardian

The timing of when a rider starts doing this can vary depending on how the horse is adapting.

The New York Times

This can vary massively, especially if you are exchanging your cheques in a non-financial business such as a hotel.

Independent

Again, this can vary wildly.

BBC

This can vary across simulation platforms.

Complex Adaptive Systems Modeling

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "this can vary" to clearly indicate that a specific aspect is not fixed and depends on certain conditions. Always specify the factors influencing the variation for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "this can vary" without providing context. Readers need to understand what factors cause the variation. Always follow up with an explanation or examples to avoid ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "this can vary" functions as a qualifier, indicating that a preceding or implied statement is subject to change or is not uniform. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in diverse contexts, from pricing to scientific outcomes, to introduce an element of uncertainty or conditionality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

27%

Science

24%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "this can vary" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that a particular aspect is subject to change or dependent on specific circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across various contexts, including news, science, and general informational content. To ensure clarity, always specify the factors influencing the variation. While alternatives like "this can differ" or "this can change" exist, "this can vary" provides a general indication of potential differences or fluctuations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

this can differ

Emphasizes a difference in form or characteristics.

this can change

Highlights the possibility of alteration over time or circumstances.

this can fluctuate

Suggests irregular variations or oscillations.

this can range

Indicates the presence of a spectrum or scale of possibilities.

this may diverge

Implies a deviation from a standard or expected path.

this is variable

Highlights the inherent inconsistency or unpredictability of something.

this can alter

Indicates transformation or adjustment.

this can be modified

Focuses on the ability to be adjusted or changed.

the timing of this can vary

Specifies that the difference relates to when something happens.

this is subject to change

Highlights the possibility of future modifications.

FAQs

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

Use "this can vary" to indicate that something is not fixed and depends on specific conditions. For example, "The cost of the project "this can vary" depending on the materials used".

What are some alternatives to "this can vary"?

You can use phrases like "this can differ", "this can change", or "this can fluctuate" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How do I clarify what "this" refers to when using "this can vary"?

Ensure the subject is clear from the preceding context. If necessary, rephrase to explicitly state what "this" refers to. For example, instead of ""this can vary"", say "The delivery time "this can vary"".

Is it correct to use "this may vary" instead of "this can vary"?

Yes, "this may vary" is also correct. While ""this can vary"" implies a possibility of variation based on certain conditions, "this may vary" suggests a possibility without necessarily implying a specific cause.