variable quality

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "variable quality" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that does not have a consistent level of quality, often in contexts like products, services, or performance. Example: "The restaurant is known for its variable quality, with some dishes being excellent while others are disappointing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A variable quality of sport.

Independent

The sequels are of wildly variable quality.

The New York Times

Meals of variable quality were served before the show.

The Guardian

The devices can be unreliable and of variable quality.

The Guardian - Opinion

Here's the results (and apologies for the variable quality of the videos).

The Guardian - Music

"Nothing Sacred," sadly, is currently available only in public-domain editions, of variable quality.

The New York Times

They are then - and only then - provided with treatment programmes of highly variable quality.

The Guardian

He laments the variable quality of treatment programs.

The New York Times - Books

After six previous censuses of variable quality, Botswana had its first systematic national census in 1964.

Britannica

Its variable quality has made it a focus for attacks on Web 2.0.

The Guardian - Tech

Existing alternative provision tends to be for older children and of variable quality.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing "variable quality", be specific about what factors contribute to the inconsistency. Provide examples or details to illustrate the range of quality observed.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that something is of "variable quality" without providing context. Explain what aspects of the subject are inconsistent and what the range of quality looks like to provide a clearer understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "variable quality" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that the quality is not consistent. Ludwig AI examples showcase its use across diverse subjects.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

34%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

4%

Travel

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "variable quality" is used to describe inconsistency and fluctuation. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, science, and academic contexts. Alternatives like "inconsistent quality" or "fluctuating quality" can offer similar meanings, but understanding the specific context is key to accurate communication. When using "variable quality", provide specific details to clarify the nature and extent of the inconsistency.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inconsistent quality

Emphasizes the lack of uniformity in quality.

fluctuating quality

Highlights the ups and downs or changes in quality over time.

uneven quality

Suggests that the quality is not uniform or consistent throughout.

varying degree of quality

Indicates a range or spectrum of different quality levels.

patchy quality

Implies that quality is good in some areas but poor in others.

sporadic quality

Suggests quality appears at irregular intervals or is not always present.

unpredictable quality

Highlights the inability to foresee or anticipate the level of quality.

erratic quality

Describes quality that deviates from the norm in an unstable or unexpected way.

modifiable quality

Highlights the ability to adjust the quality.

mutable quality

Highlights the chanceable quality.

FAQs

How can I use "variable quality" in a sentence?

You can use "variable quality" to describe products, services, or performances that lack a consistent level of quality. For example, "The restaurant is known for its variable quality; some dishes are excellent, while others are disappointing."

What can I say instead of "variable quality"?

Alternatives include "inconsistent quality", "fluctuating quality", or "uneven quality", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "variable quality" or "varied quality"?

While both are grammatically correct, "variable quality" generally implies inconsistency or unpredictability, while "varied quality" simply suggests a range of different qualities. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you intend to communicate.

What factors can contribute to "variable quality"?

Several factors can cause "variable quality", including inconsistent materials, lack of quality control, varying skill levels among workers, and changing environmental conditions.