# variability

/vɛɹiəˈbɪɫɪti/ (US) · /vˌeəɹɪəbˈɪlɪti/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/variability
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. quality of being changeable

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic

the tendency of something to change or be different at different times.

For teachers: 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'.

### 2. statistical spread

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical · Academic

a measurement of how much a set of numbers or data points spread out from the average.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The weather here shows great variability during the spring.
- Scientists are studying the genetic variability of the virus to understand how it might mutate in the future.
- High levels of heart rate variability are generally associated with better cardiovascular fitness and a more resilient autonomic nervous system.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.