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
Relevance
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
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of variation
Multiple variations on the style include modifications to the classic pattern, the materials used, and the scale and installation.
—
Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2025
Phoenix Jung Denver, CO Another variation of the tank top and sidebag look, this time punched up with a cow-print Wrangler bag ($44).
—Matt Nager, Outside, 1 Sep. 2025
Her director’s wardrobe has consisted of multiple variations of ballet flats and Mary Janes (the aforementioned Schutz pair too), relaxed denim jeans, and airy Oxford shirts.
—Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2025
Dune and swale systems are globally rare; this topographic variation — upland in the dunes, lowland in the swales — combines with the region’s unique confluence of biomes — particularly oak savanna, prairie and wetlands — to pack a lot of biodiversity into the preserve’s 42 acres.
—Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for variation
Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2025
Phoenix Jung Denver, CO Another variation of the tank top and sidebag look, this time punched up with a cow-print Wrangler bag ($44).
—Matt Nager, Outside, 1 Sep. 2025
Her director’s wardrobe has consisted of multiple variations of ballet flats and Mary Janes (the aforementioned Schutz pair too), relaxed denim jeans, and airy Oxford shirts.
—Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2025
Dune and swale systems are globally rare; this topographic variation — upland in the dunes, lowland in the swales — combines with the region’s unique confluence of biomes — particularly oak savanna, prairie and wetlands — to pack a lot of biodiversity into the preserve’s 42 acres.
—Adriana Pérez, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for variation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for variation
Noun
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How much of this summer’s leap is down to the rules and how much is just the natural order of football is open to interpretation.—
Chris Weatherspoon,
New York Times,
5 Sep. 2025
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Former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani offered a different interpretation of the ongoing dilemma, saying that jury nullification is a real possibility, especially when politics is involved.—
Kaelan Deese,
The Washington Examiner,
4 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Research suggests this disruption may stem from alterations in normal neurodevelopmental processes that happen as adolescents mature — especially since the higher end of the typical age range of onset is when the brain completes maturation, D’Souza said.—
Kristen Rogers,
CNN Money,
2 Sep. 2025
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While alteration costs can vary depending on what your dress needs, some places require a flat fee.—
Ana Teresa Solá,
CNBC,
30 Aug. 2025
Noun
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But there were also unexpected bonuses to writing between takes.—
Clare Mulroy,
USA Today,
4 Sep. 2025
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In fact, many interior designers say that depending on the execution, a less literal take can look more elevated.—
Quincy Bulin,
Southern Living,
3 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Six separate receivers have caught touchdown passes already this season, a stark difference from a season ago when Green was criticized for being too reliant on a small number of playmakers.—
Arkansas Online,
Arkansas Online,
7 Sep. 2025
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However, there's a significant difference between containing and controlling a wildfire.—
CA WILDFIRE BOT,
Sacbee.com,
7 Sep. 2025
Noun
-
Gordon can be the Dolphins’ version of David Montgomery.—
Jake Ciely,
New York Times,
2 Sep. 2025
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Some versions of the tale hold that the song's name came from a stripper Roth knew.—
Jamie L. LaReau,
USA Today,
1 Sep. 2025
Noun
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In November 2016, two of Boeing’s 737 MAX flight technical pilots discovered information about an important change to the control system part.—
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
4 Sep. 2025
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Royals shift starting rotation plans The Royals made a late change regarding Thursday’s starter.—
Jaylon Thompson,
Kansas City Star,
4 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Some of the first tank modifications came early in the war, when the main threats to military vehicles were Ukraine’s anti-tank missiles, supplied by the United States, and drones that dropped grenades.—
Marco Hernandez,
New York Times,
8 Sep. 2025
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Make these modifications with reflection and intention.—
Tracy Brower,
Forbes.com,
7 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variation. Accessed 8 Sep. 2025.
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