variance (B2)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈvɛər.i.əns/

Definition

The state of being different or deviating from a standard, norm, or expected course.

Examples

• There was a noticeable variance in the students' test scores.

• The project plan accounted for potential variance in the budget.

• We observed a variance in the plant's growth rate under different conditions.

How to Use variance

variance in (prepositional phrase)

Difference or deviation in something. — "We noted a variance in the quality of the products."

variance between (prepositional phrase)

Difference or deviation when comparing two or more things. — "The variance between the two experimental results was unexpected."

variance from (prepositional phrase)

A departure from a norm, standard, or plan. — "Any variance from the safety protocol must be reported."

Synonyms of variance

Words with a similar meaning to variance:

• difference
• variation
• discrepancy
• deviation

Antonyms of variance

Words with the opposite meaning to variance:

• sameness
• consistency

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