variable amounts of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "variable amounts of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to quantities that can change or differ in size or degree. Example: "The project requires variable amounts of resources depending on the specific needs of each phase."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The middle of the month was dominated by areas of high pressure, which gave chilly nights and variable amounts of sunshine.

The Guardian

These preparations may contain variable amounts of thyroid hormone and can have unpredictable effects on the body.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Controlled-extraction turbines are designed for withdrawing variable amounts of constant-pressure steam irrespective of the load on the turbine.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In addition to the bound water, variable amounts of zeolitic (i.e., free) water (H2O) are contained in the rectangular channels.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In this experiment, infected mice were fed on diets that contained variable amounts of protein, carbohydrate and fat.

The Economist

These technologies themselves have had variable amounts of uptake.

Journal of Cheminformatics

Variable amounts of modern freshwater recharge further diluted the groundwater.

Geochemical Transactions

That's the key right there: "the Boogie Board's Reflex LCD is highly responsive to variable amounts of pressure".

TechCrunch

Benign cystic lesion containing fluid and variable amounts of protein, mucopolysaccharides and/or cholesterol [25, 26].

Insights into Imaging

Layers C and D are rich in copper and chlorine with variable amounts of Sn.

Heritage Science

The gradual release of responsibility model requires variable amounts of assistance.

Language Testing in Asia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing experimental conditions or recipes, use "variable amounts of" to clearly indicate that the exact quantities may differ between trials or preparations. This signals flexibility and adaptability in your methodology.

Common error

While "variable amounts of" is generally acceptable, avoid overuse in highly formal or scientific writing where more precise terms like "varying quantities" or specific numerical ranges might be more appropriate. This enhances the accuracy and professionalism of your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "variable amounts of" functions as a determiner phrase modifying a noun. It indicates that the quantity or extent of something is subject to change or is not fixed. Ludwig examples show its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

75%

News & Media

11%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "variable amounts of" is a versatile phrase used to describe quantities that are not fixed or predetermined. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various domains, especially in scientific and technical writing. While alternatives like "varying quantities of" or "different proportions of" may suit specific contexts, "variable amounts of" offers a clear and widely understood way to convey uncertainty or flexibility regarding quantity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

varying quantities of

Replaces "amounts" with "quantities", emphasizing the measurable aspect of what is being considered and that these quantities are not fixed.

different quantities of

Focuses on the distinction between the amounts, suggesting a range or variety in size.

fluctuating levels of

Implies a rise and fall in the amount, adding a dynamic aspect of change over time.

changeable proportions of

Highlights the ratio or fraction that is subject to alteration.

shifting degrees of

Indicates a variation on a scale, suggesting a gradual modification in magnitude or intensity.

uneven measures of

Suggests an irregularity in the quantity, implying an imbalance or lack of uniformity.

divergent quantities of

Points towards different amounts heading in dissimilar directions or purposes.

irregular quantities of

Highlights the lack of consistent pattern, suggesting a sporadic distribution.

unpredictable levels of

Focuses on the uncertainty and lack of stable pattern in the amounts.

inconsistent portions of

Emphasizes that some parts are not the same as other parts

FAQs

How can I use "variable amounts of" in a sentence?

You can use "variable amounts of" to indicate that the quantity of something is not fixed and can change. For example: "The recipe calls for "variable amounts of" spices, depending on personal taste."

What's the difference between "variable amounts of" and "varying amounts of"?

"Variable amounts of" and "varying amounts of" are largely interchangeable. Both indicate that the quantity is not fixed. However, "varying amounts of" might subtly emphasize the process of change more than "variable amounts of".

Which is correct, "variable amount of" or "variable amounts of"?

"Variable amounts of" is generally more correct when referring to something that can be measured in non-discrete units or when referring to multiple instances. "Variable amount of" could be used with uncountable nouns, but ""variable amounts of"" is safer in most contexts.

What can I say instead of "variable amounts of" to sound more formal?

For more formal alternatives to "variable amounts of", consider using phrases like "varying quantities of", "different proportions of", or "fluctuating levels of", depending on the specific context.