vary
Definitions
To be different from one another; to differ across cases
（彼此）不同；因情况而异
To change, or to make something change or more diverse
变化；使变化，使多样化
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedStraight from Latin variāre 'to make different.' The word holds two senses at once: things that are different from each other (prices vary by region) and one thing that changes over time (he varies his routine). Both are just 'difference' — across cases, or across time.
Root vari still carries 8 more wordsUsage Guide
- vary from X to Y: prices vary from $5 to $50 — span a range
- vary by / with / according to: results vary by region; demand varies with the season
- vary in: the apples vary in size and color
Note: 'vary' (verb) is not 'various' (adjective) or 'variety' (noun) — a very common slip. You vary something; it is various; there is a variety of it.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Prices vary considerably from one store to another.
- 2.
Try to vary your diet so you get enough nutrients.
- 3.
The quality of his work varies depending on his mood.
Easily Confused
vary vs change — change is general (replace or become different in any way: change a tire, change your mind). vary specifically means 'differ across cases' or 'introduce variety,' and often implies a range: temperatures vary; you vary your workout. You can't 'vary your mind.'