variably

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'variably' is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is an adverb that means in a varying or changeable manner. Example: The weather in this region is very variable, with hot summers and cold winters.

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But Africa's rain falls more variably than, say, Norway's, and its dams often operate below capacity.

The Economist

The prime minister's recollection of these events has been variably hazy.

The Economist

And as such, we're left with multiple, variably useful models through which to view the world, and no good way to adjudicate the disputes.

The Economist

The brain is moderately developed, with folding of the surface of the cerebral hemispheres variably developed, often less in small artiodactyls than in large ones.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This was necessary in order to ensure the subject's analytic coherence, but it also created a paradox in that scholars had for a long time been aware that procreation was understood quite variably in different cultures.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yet under certain pathologic conditions, it assumes keratinizing activities that result in a variably thickened or deformed nail plate.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The oldest rocks consist of gneisses, granites, metasediments, and metavolcanic rocks 3.6 to 2.5 billion years old; all are variably deformed and metamorphosed to some degree.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Here is the "native metre" with its falling rhythm, elegiac tone, strong pauses, and variably placed stresses.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Sasquatch is variably described as a primate ranging from 6 to 15 feet (2 to 4.5 metres) tall, standing erect on two feet, often giving off a foul smell, and either moving silently or emitting a high-pitched cry.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Maritime salt marshes often extend many miles inland and are variably subject to tidal action; inland brackish marshes are found frequently on mineral substrates of alluvial and lacustrine origin.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Indeed, "the 'doer' is variably constructed in and through the deed".

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process or system that isn't uniform, use "variably" to show degrees of difference. For instance: "The committee members voted variably on the proposal, reflecting different priorities."

Common error

Avoid using "variably" when you mean "variable". "Variable" is an adjective describing something that is subject to change, while "variably" is an adverb describing how something changes. For example, a "variable interest rate" changes "variably" over time.

Linguistic Context

The adverb "variably" functions primarily to modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, indicating the manner in which something varies or changes. This is seen in Ludwig's examples such as 'The prime minister's recollection of these events has been variably hazy'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Encyclopedias

31%

News & Media

31%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"Variably" functions as an adverb that conveys the notion of something changing or differing in its characteristics. Ludwig AI affirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various domains, particularly in encyclopedias and news media. While its register is generally neutral to formal, careful attention should be given to differentiating it from the adjective "variable". To enhance writing precision, consider synonyms like "changeably" or "diversely" depending on the context. The given examples in Ludwig further highlight how "variably" enriches expression by adding nuances of inconstancy and fluctuation, while other example sentences underline the importance of choosing the most accurate expression for your specific purpose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

changeably

A more direct synonym, highlighting the capacity for change.

in a changeable manner

This phrase replaces a single adverb with a prepositional phrase, adding emphasis to the manner of change.

to a varying extent

This highlights the degree to which something varies, focusing on the range of variation.

with some variation

This version emphasizes the presence of variation, rather than the manner.

subject to change

This emphasizes the possibility of future alterations, implying a lack of fixedness.

inconstantly

This word emphasizes the lack of stability or consistency.

unevenly

This focuses on the irregularity and lack of uniformity in the way something happens.

fluctuatingly

Similar to "variably" but emphasizes movement and oscillation.

not always the same

This is a more explicit and less formal way of saying "variably", focusing on the difference.

with fluctuations

Focuses on the variations in the form of rises and falls.

FAQs

How can I use "variably" in a sentence?

"Variably" is used to describe how something changes or differs. For example, "The flowers in the garden are "variously" colored, some red and some white," or "The dosage should be adjusted "differently" depending on the patient's response."

What's the difference between "variably" and "variable"?

"Variable" is an adjective that describes something subject to change, while "variably" is an adverb that describes the manner in which something changes. For instance, "The speed is variable," meaning it can change, and it changes "variably", meaning the amount of change differs.

What are some synonyms for "variably"?

Some synonyms for "variably" include "changeably", "diversely", "in a changeable manner", or "to a varying extent". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "variably" in formal writing?

Yes, "variably" is perfectly acceptable in formal writing. It's a clear and concise way to indicate that something changes or differs in its characteristics. For example, "The regulations are applied "differently" across different regions."