variable according

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "variable according" is not correct and does not convey a clear meaning in written English.
It may be intended to express that something changes based on certain criteria or conditions, but it lacks clarity and proper structure. Example: "The results are variable according to the different methods used in the experiment."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Digital statistics are damnably variable according to the rules you count by (the Mail has an even more mind-boggling 84m uniques on the latest ABCe releases).

The Guardian

Its results are variable according to the series.

Acta Otorrinolaringológica Española

Their number was variable according to the program.

Journal of Cheminformatics

However, resistance to imipenem is variable according to the authors, ranging from 3.1 to 60% [2].

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

The locations of these arguments is variable according to the implementation of the OS.

Journal of Cloud Computing

The length of a phase or step is variable according to adaptation to the situation.

Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training

The free vibrations of a circular plate having elastic constraints variable according to the angular co-ordinate are investigated.

Journal of Sound and Vibration

Moreover, copy number cut-offs of the gene for defining an amplification are variable according to the studies.

Pathologie Biologie

Their magnetic character was variable according to alterations of the Alg/PVA composition, alkaline reagent adopted, and measurement temperature.

Polymer

Indicator 99: percentage of informed written consent forms correctly filled out was variable according type of procedure.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

They also introduced a new QoS level function that relates to the spectrum availability and variable according to SU requirements.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate substitute. "Subject to change based on" works well for dynamic situations, while "as specified by" is better for technical documentation.

Common error

Avoid relying heavily on the phrase "variable according" in your writing. While it may seem concise, its grammatical ambiguity can detract from the overall impact and clarity of your message. Use more precise and grammatically sound alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "variable according" functions as a prepositional phrase that aims to indicate that something changes or differs in relation to something else. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is grammatically questionable, recommending more standard constructions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

85%

News & Media

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "variable according" is used to express that something changes or differs based on a specific factor. While it appears frequently, especially in scientific and news contexts, Ludwig AI marks it as grammatically questionable. It is better to opt for alternatives such as "variable depending on", "subject to change based on", or "in accordance with" to ensure clarity and grammatical correctness. Using more precise language enhances the credibility and impact of your writing. Therefore, while the phrase is widespread, consider its limitations and choose alternative phrasings whenever possible.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

variable depending on

Replaces "according to" with "depending on", providing a more direct and grammatically sound expression of conditionality.

subject to change based on

Uses a more formal tone, highlighting the possibility of alteration contingent on specific factors.

dependent on

Offers a concise alternative, emphasizing reliance or contingency on a particular element.

contingent upon

Emphasizes that the variability is conditional and relies on certain circumstances.

in accordance with

Indicates that something varies because it is in compliance or agreement with a standard or guideline.

as per

A more concise alternative to "according to", often used in professional or technical contexts.

as specified by

Highlights that the variation is dictated by a specific set of instructions or requirements.

governed by

Emphasizes that variability is controlled or influenced by specific rules or conditions.

as determined by

Suggests that the variance is a result of a specific evaluation or assessment process.

modified by

Highlights that the variance is achieved through alterations.

FAQs

Is "variable according" grammatically correct?

While frequently used, "variable according" is not considered grammatically correct. Alternatives like "variable depending on" or "subject to change based on" are more precise.

What's a better way to say "results are variable according to the method"?

A clearer phrasing would be "results are "results are variable depending on the method"" or "results vary based on the method".

How can I make my writing sound more formal than using "variable according"?

Use phrases like "in accordance with", "as specified by", or "contingent upon" for a more formal and precise tone.

When is it acceptable to use "variable according"?

While common, especially in scientific texts, it's generally preferable to avoid "variable according" in formal writing. In informal contexts, its usage might be understood, but more precise alternatives are always recommended.