2 meanings
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1 —as in:
a variation on a theme
Definition
something that is different than others of its type (synonyms could include: adaptation, version, alternate form)- Scientists are worried about a new variation of the virus.
variation = version (something that is different than others of its type)
Other Uses (with this meaning)
- I've heard three variations of that joke.
- Over the years there have been many variations of the Snickers Bar such as the Snickers Almond bar and Snickers Ice Cream bar.
- Highly empathetic people are more likely to have a gene variation associated with trust and caring.
- I stopped for a long time to let my nerves settle, then leaned back from my tools and stared up at the face above, searching for a hint of solid ice, for some variation in the underlying rock strata, for anything that would allow passage over the frosted slabs.Jon Krakauer -- Into the Wild
- The music went on and on, minute after minute, with astonishing variations, never once repeating itself, almost as though the bird were deliberately showing off its virtuosity.George Orwell -- 1984
variations = versions (things that are different than others of their type)
variations = versions (things that are different than others of their type)
variation = version (something that is different than others of its type)
variation = something different than the rest
variations = differences
2 —as in:
a 60% variation
Definition
difference — typically between things of the same type, or within a limited range- They found a variation of 600% in the cost of having a baby—largely determined by which hospital was selected for delivery.
variation = difference
Other Uses (with this meaning)
- The variation in medical prices can be shocking.
- They studied regional language variation by analyzing Twitter data.
- When all other factors are the same, WalletHub's study found an average of a 65% variation in the cost of auto insurance depending upon whether the insured has excellent credit or no credit history.
variation = difference
variation = difference
variation = difference
Less commonly:
See a comprehensive dictionary for specialized meanings in mathematics, music, dance, astronomy, biology, and physics.