VARIATION Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

variation

noun

ˌver-ē-ˈā-shən

Definition of variation

as in interpretation

a distinct treatment of something (as a story or a play) the movie begins with a somewhat irreverent variation on the Nativity story

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

as in alteration

the act, process, or result of making different the latest in a long line of variations in her hair color

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 variation Pastas, pizza, and several espresso martini variations round out the menu, according to its website. — Paris Barraza, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2026 Add in just a bit of variation, and a population that does not swerve emerges. — Chris Lee, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026 All of the surviving local spans were constructed by brothers Sheldon and Savanard Jewett between 1863 and 1890, using variations on the Town lattice truss. — Stefanie Waldek, Travel + Leisure, 11 Sep. 2026 The collection features eight Hydro Flask bottles that were selected and designed in partnership with Role Model, including variations of top-selling bottles such as the 32 oz Wide Flex Straw Cap and the 400 mL Micro Hydro. — Tanya Fedak, Variety, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for variation

Recent Examples of Synonyms for variation

Noun

The interpretation around physical contact has become so vague that nobody can have any faith in what any referee, in any game or situation, will decide to do next.

— Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026
In the 250 years since Newton introduced his famous laws of motion, physicists had come to believe their equations described a reality that was entirely independent of human action or interpretation.

— Adam Frank, NPR, 14 Sep. 2026

Definition of interpretation

Noun

The other significant alteration made to the Chabrol source material is that, while Minotaur is mostly seen through the husband’s perspective, Zvyagintsev allows Galina to advocate for herself directly, to say her piece before everything unravels.

— David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 14 Sep. 2026
Gharials in the wild face significant challenges from fishing practices, pollution and habitat alteration.

— Harriet Ramos, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 Sep. 2026

Definition of alteration

Noun

Adding to this bold take is the return of QB Daniel Jones, who will be nine months removed from right Achilles surgery when the season begins.

— Matt Schneidman, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
While Michiganders may be more concerned about paying their utility and grocery bills, the take garnered national attention and caught the eye of people across the country who were willing to donate to el Sayed’s campaign.

— Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2026

Definition of take

Noun

That difference in speed is itself information about its path, so no interference pattern would appear.

— Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 11 Sep. 2026
Yes, that’s right, Grambling State’s nationally renowned band could be a difference-maker on the road.

— Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Sep. 2026

Definition of difference

Noun

During the Brazilian’s tenure, there has been a significant degree of change well beyond his position and in the manager’s office.

— Paul Taylor, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Lawmakers have been eyeing changes like prohibiting lawmakers from dating staff members, updating reporting systems and retaliation protections, and increasing educational and training resources.

— Nicholas Wu, semafor.com, 8 Sep. 2026

Definition of change

Noun

The tests analyze modifications to DNA and return a single number that may run higher or lower than the years on your driver’s license.

— Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 14 Sep. 2026
In addition, the vehicle was developed using digital twin technology through ESOX OS, allowing for rapid modifications and updates.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 13 Sep. 2026

Definition of modification

Browse Nearby Words

variants

variation

variations

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variation. Accessed 18 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of variation

noun

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