1
as in to differ
to be unlike; to not be the same opinions by experts on the subject vary

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
as in to range
to occur within a continuous range of variation the appliance store is offering discounts that vary from 10 to 40 percent, depending upon the brand

Synonyms & Similar Words

4
as in to shift
to pass from one form, state, or level to another terrain that constantly varied as we traveled from the coast to the interior

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word vary different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of vary are alter, change, and modify. While all these words mean "to make or become different," vary stresses a breaking away from sameness, duplication, or exact repetition.

vary your daily routine

When is alter a more appropriate choice than vary?

While the synonyms alter and vary are close in meaning, alter implies a difference in some particular respect without suggesting loss of identity.

slightly altered the original design

When is it sensible to use change instead of vary?

The words change and vary can be used in similar contexts, but change implies making either an essential difference often amounting to a loss of original identity or a substitution of one thing for another.

changed the shirt for a larger size

When might modify be a better fit than vary?

The synonyms modify and vary are sometimes interchangeable, but modify suggests a difference that limits, restricts, or adapts to a new purpose.

modified the building for use by the disabled

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of vary The number of visitors varies year to year, but about 100-150 people usually come through on Halloween night. Charlotte Observer, 24 Oct. 2025 The war began in 2023, and the quality of coverage since then, as Max suggests, has varied over time and across outlets. David Wingrave, Harpers Magazine, 24 Oct. 2025 Here’s how to claim your lottery prize For Indiana Lottery prizes, the claim process varies depending on the prize amount. Chris Sims, IndyStar, 24 Oct. 2025 Early voting hours vary by day, and polling locations may differ from those on Election Day. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for vary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vary
Verb
  • Both a quarantine and blockade are similar in essence, though differ in personnel and severity.
    Charlie Campbell, Time, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Part of the reason for the differing groups divided between north and south was likely due to climate conditions, Flynn said.
    Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 23 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Twelve of the 20 indicators for the health risks and impacts of climate change in the report set concerning new records—showing that the health impacts caused by our changing climate have reached unprecedented levels that cannot be ignored.
    Simmone Shah, Time, 29 Oct. 2025
  • An area rug can completely change how a room feels—adding warmth, softness, and personality from the very first step.
    Jacqueline Tempera, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • With sizes ranging from 0 to 20 and four different inseam options (19, 23, 25, and 28 inches), these lightweight and sweat-wicking leggings are perfect for everything from lounging to long workouts, with plenty of space to keep your essentials in easy reach.
    Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Sherrill’s Narrow Lead Holds Across Most Polls Across 10 surveys conducted from late September to mid-October, Sherrill’s lead ranges from one to eight points, underscoring a competitive contest.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Despite shifting attention, 72 percent of consumers globally still preferred products that do not harm plants or animals, the survey showed.
    Matthew Tostevin, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 Oct. 2025
  • Something in your circle is shifting, and sweeping it under the rug isn't going to work this time!
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • In the video, the intern’s serene self-care contrasts sharply with the anxiety often associated with flying.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 22 Oct. 2025
  • For her duet with Grande, Erivo wore a dress with contrasting fabric from Marni’s fall 2025 collection by former creative director Francesco Risso.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • When proteins are modified, the glow provides a visual signal, letting researchers monitor biological activity without breaking open cells or adding disruptive chemicals.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
  • The State Department regularly updates and modifies travel advisories based on current events, geopolitical issues, and analysis of overall threat risks.
    Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 24 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The dress is made from a fine-gauge knit that offers warmth without feeling bulky, which is essential for fluctuating weather.
    Rachel Trujillo, Travel + Leisure, 26 Oct. 2025
  • Radon levels fluctuate constantly due to weather, HVAC use, and even seasonal patterns.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The arrests, particularly that of Hall of Famer and Portland head coach Chauncey Billups, altered the tenor of this week’s conversations around the NBA, whose new season had started only two days earlier.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 24 Oct. 2025
  • Treatment supervisors generate a unique model for each river, adjusting for variables as seemingly inconsequential as the appearance of a new beaver dam, which can completely alter the flow.
    Katie Thornton, New Yorker, 24 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Vary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vary. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

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