Word
variability
Phoneticsvari·abil·i·ty
US/vɛɹiəˈbɪɫɪti/
UK/vˌeəɹɪəbˈɪlɪti/
Definitions
01quality of being changeable
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Academic
n. the tendency of something to change or be different at different times.
n. the quality or state of being variable or inconsistent. Uncountable in this general sense.
“The variability of the local weather makes it hard to plan outdoor events.”
“Economists are concerned about the variability of market prices, as sudden fluctuations can undermine consumer confidence and long-term investment.”
Usage
Often followed by the preposition 'of'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02statistical spread
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Mathematics Technical · Academic
n. a measurement of how much a set of numbers or data points spread out from the average.
n. the degree to which data points in a distribution or series deviate from the mean or from each other.
“The study showed high variability in the test scores of the two groups.”
“Statistical variability must be accounted for when interpreting the results of the clinical trial to ensure the observed effects are significant.”
Usage
Commonly used in the context of data analysis and scientific research.
Synonyms
Real-World Examples
“The researchers say this is because temperature variability increases in the tropics, making extremes more frequent.” “Because similar patterns appeared both across millions of years and across modern geographic regions, the findings suggest environmental variability may play an important role in driving changes in body shape.” “The study shows that this slowdown is due to natural variability, yet human influence is nevertheless evident.” Etymology
Derived form of variable, from Old French variable; see variable + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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