variety
/vəˈɹaɪ.ɪ.ti/
Variety evokes a sense of abundance through difference. It suggests that the value of a collection lies not in the quantity of items, but in how distinct those items are from one another. In general contexts, it carries a positive connotation of richness and avoidance of monotony. While 'diversity' often refers to social or biological systemic differences, 'variety' is more commonly used for consumer choices, hobbies, or sensory experiences. In botanical or zoological contexts, the word shifts from a general feeling of diversity to a technical classification. Here, it describes a specific subtype or cultivar, emphasizing a stable set of traits that distinguish it from others of the same species.
Uncountable when describing the general concept of diversity ('The variety in the rainforest is stunning'). Countable when referring to a specific breed of plant or animal ('He grows three different varieties of heirloom tomatoes').
💬Casual Conversation
this new skin pack is mid. no variety at all.
bet. i'll just stick with the default then.
Meanings
Collocations & Compounds
wide variety
A large number of different types of things.
vast variety
An extensive or immense range of different items or characteristics.
variety of choice
The state of having many different options to select from.
plant variety
A specific subgroup of a plant species with distinct characteristics.
lack of variety
A state where things are too similar or monotonous.
Idioms & Sayings
variety is the spice of life
The belief that new and different experiences make life more interesting.