variance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "variance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the state of being different, dissimilar, or varied. For example: "The variance between the two products is quite noticeable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sinn Fein are at variance with the rest of what unionists call "the pan-nationalist front" on half of these issues.

The Guardian

But it is a variance that I have held a long time".

The Guardian

His views, he said, "might be at variance with some of the views of my colleagues on the Conservative benches.

The Guardian

Again, this is at variance with the evidence.

The Guardian - Opinion

Although it has nothing to do with him, John Reid, the Scottish secretary, was savaged by English MPs in the House of Commons on January 25th.The government fears that too much variance in the treatment of Scottish and English students could cause political strain.

The Economist

Ms Rey estimates an interest-rate change can explain between 4% and 17% of variance in the VIX.

The Economist

In practice, though, even if it has not undermined the model, it has at least acquired a free-marketeering momentum of its own which is at variance with the traditions of the "social-model".

The Economist

The high level of growth claimed by the government appears to be at variance with the evidence pointing to a steady decline in oil production, with the finance minister, Mohammed al-Hussein, recently stating that in 2006 Syria became a net oil importer.

The Economist

APPETITE FOR LIFE: THE BIOGRAPHY OF JULIA CHILD.By Noel Riley Fitch.Doubleday; 512 pages; $25.95UNTIL the 1960s, the North American approach to cooking was so much at variance with the French that any attempt to fuse the two would suggest either colossal nerve or profound cultural naïveté.

The Economist

It insists its beers are in full compliance with labeling laws, which permit a variance of 0.3% in alcohol-by-volume content from the amount listed on the can or bottle.

The Economist

As a result, they tend to be conservative in their farming decisions, eschewing productive ventures that might raise the expected value of their income, but also raise its variance.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing statistical data, clearly define whether you are referring to sample variance or population variance, as they are calculated differently.

Common error

Avoid using "variance" and standard deviation interchangeably. Variance is the square of the standard deviation and represents the average of the squared differences from the mean, while standard deviation is the square root of the variance and is expressed in the same units as the original data.

Linguistic Context

The word "variance" primarily functions as a noun. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it denotes the state or fact of varying or disagreeing; difference; discrepancy. Examples in Ludwig showcase its use in statistical contexts and in describing disagreements or inconsistencies.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the noun "variance" is a versatile term used across multiple domains, primarily to express the state of being variable, different, or in disagreement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts, particularly in statistics, news, and business. Common usage includes discussions of statistical dispersion, differences in opinions, and irregularities. To avoid errors, distinguish "variance" from standard deviation and clarify whether you mean sample or population variance. Related phrases include "degree of variation" and "measure of dispersion". Ultimately, understanding the nuances of "variance" enhances clarity and precision in both writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

measure of dispersion

This term, often used in statistics, refers to the spread of data around a central value.

degree of variation

This alternative focuses on the extent to which something changes or differs.

margin of difference

This alternative emphasizes the space or degree by which things differ.

extent of disparity

This alternative highlights the degree of inequality or difference between things.

scope of deviation

This option indicates the extent to which something departs from a standard or norm.

range of fluctuation

This phrase emphasizes the limits within which something varies or oscillates.

amount of fluctuation

This option highlights the quantity or degree of irregular variation.

degree of irregularity

This term focuses on the extent to which something lacks uniformity or consistency.

level of diversity

This alternative underscores the variety and heterogeneity within a group or set.

scale of divergence

This phrase underscores the extent to which things move apart or differ.

FAQs

How is "variance" used in statistical analysis?

"Variance" measures the spread or dispersion of a set of data points around their mean value. It quantifies how much individual data points deviate from the average. Higher variance indicates greater variability.

What's the difference between "variance" and standard deviation?

While both measure data dispersion, "variance" is the average of the squared differences from the mean, whereas standard deviation is the square root of the variance. Standard deviation is often preferred because it's in the same units as the original data.

What are some situations where I might need a zoning "zoning variance"?

A zoning variance is typically needed when a property owner wants to deviate from the standard zoning regulations, such as building closer to a property line than allowed or exceeding height restrictions. This usually requires approval from a local zoning board.

What can I say instead of "at "at variance""?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "in disagreement", "in conflict", "at odds", or "inconsistent with" to convey a similar meaning to "at variance".