Various Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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various

[หˆvษ›หrษชษ™s ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

describing different types or things

Having many different types or forms; diverse

Synonyms

different, diverse, numerous, several.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
various

Used when referring to a wide range of different items or options.

  • She has various books on her shelf
  • They discussed various topics during the meeting
different

Used when comparing two or more things that are not the same.

  • This shirt is different from the one I bought yesterday
  • We all have different opinions on the matter
diverse

Used when indicating a great variety, often involving unique or unlike items within a group.

  • The city has a diverse population
  • They offer a diverse range of services
several

Used to refer to more than two but not many; a few items or options.

  • I have several friends coming over tonight
  • She gave me several tips on how to improve my writing
numerous

Used to indicate a large number of items or options.

  • He made numerous mistakes in his report
  • There are numerous reasons to visit this museum

Examples of usage

  • There are various reasons for his absence.
  • The museum has various exhibitions throughout the year.
  • She has various interests, including painting and gardening.
Context #2 | Determiner

indicating several different types or things

Several different types of; many

Synonyms

different, multiple, numerous, several.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
various

Use when talking about a range of different things or types.

  • They sell various kinds of cheese at the market.
  • She has lived in various countries in Europe.
several

Used when referring to a number more than two but not many; a few.

  • There are several cafes in this neighborhood.
  • He made several attempts to reach her.
different

Appropriate when emphasizing the contrast or distinction between items.

  • The twins have very different personalities.
  • We need a different approach to solve this problem.
numerous

Best for highlighting a large number of items or instances, usually more formal.

  • He has received numerous awards for his performance.
  • We encountered numerous obstacles during our hike.
multiple

Often used in contexts where you want to refer to many instances or occurrences.

  • She has multiple accounts on social media.
  • The software supports multiple languages.

Examples of usage

  • I enjoy reading various books on different topics.
  • We offer various services to meet our customers' needs.
  • There are various ways to cook a potato.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Art and Literature

  • Artists often use various colors and techniques to create unique expressions in their work.
  • Literature thrives on various genres, from fiction to poetry, each offering unique storytelling styles and themes.
  • The phrase 'various interpretations' commonly refers to how different people see or understand a piece of art or text.

Science

  • In biology, various species contribute to the ecosystem's richness and balance.
  • Various elements in chemistry combine to create countless compounds, showcasing nature's diversity.
  • The concept of variation is crucial in evolution, where various traits can lead to different survival outcomes.

Culture

  • Various cultures around the world celebrate festivals in unique ways, showcasing their traditions and values.
  • Culinary dishes vary greatly between regions, with various ingredients and cooking methods reflecting local tastes.
  • Music styles can be various, influenced by cultural backgrounds, leading to an enriching auditory experience.

Psychology

  • Exposure to various stimuli can affect cognitive development and learning in children.
  • Various coping mechanisms are identified in psychology to help individuals manage stress and emotions.
  • Studies show that varied experiences can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills in individuals.

Origin of 'various'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'varius', meaning 'varied' or 'diverse'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 15th century, reflecting a need to describe diversity.
  • Many languages have similar roots; for example, in French, 'variรฉ' also means varied.

The word 'various' originated from the Latin word 'varius', meaning 'having different colors or forms'. Over time, the term evolved to encompass a wide range of meanings, reflecting the diversity and multiplicity of the world around us. The concept of variousness has been celebrated in literature, art, and philosophy as a fundamental aspect of human experience.


See also: unvaried, unvarying, variable, variance, varied, variety, variously, vary, varying, varyingly.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #250, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.