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 Further, real-world situations will inevitably present unexpected variations. — ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026 What emerges is a worsening crisis as pensions consume an ever-rising share of funding, but with some significant variation across the country. — Gregory Kearney, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026 A lot of what Mariscos offers is different variations of ceviche. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 July 2026 Stick to a cohesive palette—ideally three main colors—and let variations in texture, material, and finish add depth. — Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 12 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for variation

Recent Examples of Synonyms for variation

Noun

And so there’s lots of different interpretations to any lyric within the record.

— Chris Willman, Variety, 13 July 2026
These top-handle bags introduce a new interpretation of modern dressing, one that’s more understated and elegant.

— Emma Bocchi, Glamour, 11 July 2026

Definition of interpretation

Noun

But when renovating an 18th-century apartment on a side street in the Marais, architect Clément Lesnoff-Rocard boldly undid a number of alterations to the home over the years.

— Felix Wagner, Architectural Digest, 11 July 2026
This challenge transcends typical software localization, demanding fundamental alterations to AI's core reasoning and output.

— Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

Definition of alteration

Noun

Cinema United’s take is especially salient given that, in their lawsuit, the state regulators argued that the theatrical market, in particular, would be harmed by a reduction in owners of wide-release, high-grossing films.

— Katie Kilkenny, HollywoodReporter, 13 July 2026
Only Elliot Anderson has completed more tackles, only Anthony Gordon has completed more take-ons, and only Harry Kane had scored more goals — until Bellingham joined him on six with his double against Norway.

— Thom Harris, New York Times, 13 July 2026

Definition of take

Noun

Yes, even these guys are obviously mature for their ages, there’s a pretty significant difference just in terms of frame, body weight.

— Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 18 July 2026
But Scheft and his team are mastering the subtle differences and plan to offer many of the same loaves available in Boston, though the bakeries will have a few different offerings.

— Connie Ogle July 17, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026

Definition of difference

Noun

But Westfalia puts some creativity to work on this version, lifting the bed higher than usual to create a true second level, accessed via three steps.

— New Atlas, New Atlas, 15 July 2026
Some of it is just an extreme version of your grandmother who used to futilely pat the bottom of her chin to fix that waddle.

— Mikey O'Connell, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2026

Definition of version

Noun

During play, participants are constantly switching between jogging, sprinting and directional changes, which creates cardiovascular conditioning similar to structured interval training.

— Nicole Williams, AJC.com, 14 July 2026
The game featured 23 lead changes and 13 ties — with both teams shooting 55% from the field.

— CBS News, CBS News, 14 July 2026

Definition of change

Noun

The company designed it for installation on existing military vehicles and forward operating positions without requiring extensive modifications to core platform systems.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 July 2026
The Implementing Act update introduces operational modifications by member states and industry stakeholders that include simplified declarations for micro and small primary operators.

— Jennifer Bringle, Footwear News, 16 July 2026

Definition of modification

Browse Nearby Words

variants

variation

variations

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Style

“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variation. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of variation

noun

Example Sentences

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