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
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Recent Examples of variation
This ensures consistency across Texas, limiting local variations in how eviction cases (including squatting) are handled.
—
Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 6 Jan. 2026
Food and Drink Food and drink costs were not included due to the wide variation in individual spending.
—Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 6 Jan. 2026
Which means acquisitions and other creative variations of dealmaking are also very much in play.
—Allie Garfinkle, Fortune, 6 Jan. 2026
The scientific debate about individual variations in response is actually quite complicated, and very important.
—Outside, 6 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for variation
Recent Examples of Synonyms for variation
Noun
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Today, however, the focus is on a broader interpretation of the spaces around these points.—
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Watershed Spa Minneapolis Watershed is a modern interpretation of an ancient communal bathhouse.—
Noun
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Dubbed the Billion Cell Atlas, the data set shows how cells react to specific alterations.—
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Rules governing modification of buildings located in historic districts can be similarly restrictive, and include the additional requirement that any alterations of buildings within their confines be consistent with neighborhood character.—
Noun
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Under the league’s proposal, players would receive in excess of 70% of net revenue — though that would be their take of the profits after expenses are paid.—
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The best months for the state’s total take are April 2024 ($18,945,301), November ($16,728,516), this past month ($14,672,613), October ($14,066,214), and November 2024 ($14,057,587).—
Noun
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Wrought Studio Lawandra Modern Upholstered Swivel Storage Chair To the naked eye, this may seem like a typical upholstered chair, but there’s one sneaky detail that makes a world of difference.—
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That’s for the college game, where the head coach is the star and the difference between the haves and have-nots is massive.—
Noun
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Miller said he’s always emphasized to his players the importance of getting out of their comfort zones and being the best version of themselves possible.—
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Arby’s version features slow-roasted beef, gooey Swiss cheese, pickled Giardiniera for a vinegary bite, and savory au jus for dipping.—
Noun
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Trump had no expectations for his meeting with Machado, the president's spokeswoman said, and wasn't seeking information from her that could speed up the timeline for change in leadership or democratic elections.—
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Markets are callous and only react meaningfully when these events impact economic fundamentals or lead to a change in policy.—
Noun
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The magazine chronicled the modifications, which were completed by a company called Van Goodies of Maywood, Illinois, in a series of monthly spreads.—
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Our Pediatric Health Lifestyle Center, which is an incredibly successful program that operates on our pediatric outpatient clinics, is a lifestyle modification program for kids that are screened at risk for diabetes and obesity and includes consultation with nutritionists.—
Cite this Entry
“Variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/variation. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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