Synonyms of vary

vary

verb

ˈver-ē 

1

as in to differ

to be unlike; to not be the same

opinions by experts on the subject vary

Synonyms & Similar Words

• differ
• contrast
• fluctuate
• divide
• deviate
• diverge
• separate

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compare
• match
• correspond
• agree
• conform
• accord

2

as in to change

to make different in some way

varied the method occasionally for the sake of experimentation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• change
• modify
• alter
• remodel
• transform
• rework
• revise
• recast
• remake
• redo
• refashion
• mutate
• revamp
• deform
• make over
• metamorphose
• revolutionize
• exchange
• transmute
• transfigure
• convert
• commute
• regenerate
• retool
• rejigger

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• set
• fix
• stabilize
• freeze

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

• range
• go
• run
• fluctuate
• change
• shift
• move
• reach
• alternate
• extend
• mutate
• sweep
• stretch

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

• change
• shift
• fluctuate
• mutate
• improve
• snap
• morph
• deteriorate
• better
• metamorphose
• worsen
• transmute
• vacillate
• turn around
• waver
• seesaw
• teeter

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• stabilize
• plateau

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

Recent Examples of vary

On the other hand, the penalty for harboring or aiding a felon can vary, depending on the severity of the underlying felony committed by the person being aided. —Chris Ramirez, jsonline.com, 9 July 2025

However, protocols for responding to wildlife conflicts that are not life-threatening can vary from one community to another. —Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025

Hollywood filmmakers have been embracing AI research to varying degrees. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 8 July 2025

This era was also defined by varying shades of yellow, which Badu frequently wore: as a jacket, or even perhaps as a dress. —Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 27 June 2025