variability
- 01 C1 Advanced
the tendency of something to change or be different at different times.
the quality or state of being variable or inconsistent. Uncountable in this general sense.
Simple“The variability of the local weather makes it hard to plan outdoor events.”
In context“Economists are concerned about the variability of market prices, as sudden fluctuations can undermine consumer confidence and long-term investment.”
UsageOften followed by the preposition 'of'.
SynonymsAntonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
a measurement of how much a set of numbers or data points spread out from the average.
the degree to which data points in a distribution or series deviate from the mean or from each other.
Simple“The study showed high variability in the test scores of the two groups.”
In context“Statistical variability must be accounted for when interpreting the results of the clinical trial to ensure the observed effects are significant.”
UsageCommonly used in the context of data analysis and scientific research.
Synonyms
“The study shows that this slowdown is due to natural variability, yet human influence is nevertheless evident.”
“The researchers say this is because temperature variability increases in the tropics, making extremes more frequent.”
Derived form of variable, from Old French variable; see variable + -ity.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.