What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
variance
Example
The variance between the two test scores was significant. [variance: noun]
Example
The variance in the data set was calculated to be 25. [variance: noun]
variation
Example
There was a variation in the weather patterns this year compared to last year. [variation: noun]
Example
The variation in the bird species was remarkable. [variation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Variation is more commonly used than variance in everyday language. Variation is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while variance is more technical and specific to certain fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between variance and variation?
Variance is typically associated with technical or scientific contexts and is therefore more formal than variation, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
