Synonyms of variation

variation

noun

ˌver-ē-ˈā-shən 

1

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

• interpretation
• take
• version
• riff
• adaptation
• translation

2

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

• alteration
• difference
• change
• modification
• revision
• shift
• amendment
• revise
• adjustment
• remodeling
• reworking
• fluctuation
• mutation
• redesign
• review
• transformation
• revamping
• remaking
• refashioning
• reform
• redoing
• deformation
• distortion
• oscillation
• correction
• substitution
• conversion
• metamorphosis
• rectification
• displacement
• replacement
• modulation
• regulation
• tweak
• transfiguration
• redo

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stabilization
• fixation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of variation

Bold statement pockets added further structure to the overall look, while an elevated collar created a modern variation on the wardrobe staple. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 5 Oct. 2026

Simulation creates a viable path, enabling millions of variations overnight instead of decades of trial and error. — Richard Clough, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Adler and his wife-cum-business partner, Rachel Jackson, who together own the group RAD Restaurants, have graced three establishments with variations on Aronow’s name, all of them devoted to a sort of modern version of Ashkenazi American cooking. — Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 4 Oct. 2026

Howard created multiple variations, including a piano-and-cello duet and orchestral arrangements. — Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 3 Oct. 2026