1
Changing condition
Differ across time, place, or cases.
Example
Rainfall is highly variable from year to year.
variable
/ˈvɛəriəbəl/ · VAIR-ee-uh-buhladjective and noun
Likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
Use variable when the context supports this precise meaning: likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
What variable Really Means
The word becomes easier to use when its closely related senses are separated and compared.
2
Research factor
Take different values within an analysis.
Example
Income was the only variable strongly associated with travel time.
3
Inconsistent quality
Perform unevenly rather than reliably.
Example
The early recordings are variable in clarity.
Use variable Naturally
Notice how the surrounding noun or clause reveals the exact shade of meaning.
Rainfall is highly variable from year to year.
Income was the only variable strongly associated with travel time.
The early recordings are variable in clarity.
Precision Matters
Variable overlaps with several common words, but each carries a different emphasis.
variable
vs.Means likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
erratic
Means unpredictable, irregular, or inconsistent.
variable
vs.Means likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
uniform
Means consistent or the same throughout.
variable
vs.Means likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
constant
Means remaining unchanged.
variable
vs.Means likely to change; also, a factor that can take different values.
prevalent
Means widespread or commonly occurring in a particular place or time.
Test variable in Context
The condition changes substantially over time.
1
Because wind speed is ___, measurements taken on a single afternoon cannot represent the entire season.