variety - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
variety Word Meanings
- a number of different types of things
- a range of things that are different from each other
- the quality or state of being different or diverse
variety Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
variety Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/vəˈraɪ.ə.ti/
US
/vəˈraɪ.ə.ti/
variety Word Etymology
Root: vari- = change, -ety = quality/state. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a garden filled with an array of colorful flowers, each representing a different variety.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I set my hand on the desk and move aside a few items, watching them shift in my grip. I move from one example to another, change what I focus on, and the scene of options grows wider in my mind. The effort feels steady as I adjust my attention to the differences, keeping track of how each choice stands apart. By the end I feel a variety emerge, not as a rule, but as a trail of contrasts I could name when I speak or write.
Real Context
Variety refers to a number of different types of things, a range of differences among items, or the quality of being diverse. It describes a collection that includes many distinct kinds, such as a variety of fruits, flavors, or styles. The word often appears in phrases like a variety show or a variety of options, and it contrasts with sameness or uniformity. In business, education, or research, variety emphasizes breadth rather than depth and signals that multiple choices exist. People talk about cultural variety, linguistic variety, or dietary variety to express richness and inclusiveness. Remember that variety can be countable in phrases like many varieties, or uncountable when referring to diversity in general.
Usage Reminders
- 1) Use a variety of + plural noun to emphasize many kinds.
- 2) Remember whether variety is countable (varieties) or uncountable (variety in general).
- 3) Pair with common collocations: a variety of options, variety show, variety pack.
- 4) Distinguish variety from diversity; variety = types within one group, diversity = breadth across groups.
- 5) Watch for adjective form: various = several different; not a noun.
- 6) Practice with examples: there is a variety of fruits, there are various ways to solve this.
Common Misconceptions
- Variety is the same as diversity or abundance.
- A variety of means you must always use 'of' after it with any noun.
- 'Variety' is only about food or products, not abstract ideas.
- Variety is always countable.
- Mixing up 'variety' with 'various' because they look similar.
Thinking Differences
Variety in English centers on the number of different kinds within a group; learners often equate it with overall diversity or abundance, and may misplace it with various or diversity. Remember the classic 'a variety of' pattern and that 'varieties' is the plural when naming kinds.
Learning Tips
- Use a variety of + plural noun to emphasize many kinds.
- Remember whether variety is countable (varieties) or uncountable (variety in general).
- Pair with common collocations: a variety of options, variety show, variety pack.
- Distinguish variety from diversity; variety = types within one group, diversity = breadth across groups.
- Various is an adjective meaning 'different' but not a noun.
- Practice with examples: There is a variety of fruits; There are various ways to solve this.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'variety'?
A.A type of car
B.A range of different things
C.A specific shade of color
D.A type of music genre
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'variety' used correctly?
A.Her wardrobe has a lot of variety with different colors and styles.
B.She only eats vanilla ice cream, no variety for her.
C.He studied a variety of plants when he was in school.
D.The job required a variety of experience and skills.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'variety'?
A.Diversity
B.Uniformity
C.Consistency
D.Monotony
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym for 'variety'?
A.Selection
B.Assortment
C.Homogeneity
D.Similarity
Step 5: Mastery
How can the concept of 'variety' be applied in everyday life?
A.Wearing the same outfit every day
B.Choosing different foods to try from a menu
C.Listening to various genres of music
D.Only watching one type of TV show
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