What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
differ
Example
The two paintings differ in style and color. [differ: verb]
Example
I differ from your opinion on this matter. [differ: verb]
Example
Her approach to the problem differed from her colleagues. [differed: past tense]
vary
Example
The prices of the products vary depending on the brand. [vary: verb]
Example
The menu varies from day to day. [varies: present tense]
Example
The weather can vary greatly in this region. [vary: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vary is more commonly used than differ in everyday language. Vary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while differ is less common and often used in more specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between differ and vary?
Both differ and vary are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
