Words / C1

VAIRR-ee-uh-ns/ˈveəriəns/

Variance is the amount by which things differ; in statistics, a measure of spread; in UK planning, permission to depart from a rule: high variance, a planning variance. Variation (already in the dictionary) is the everyday twin; averaging a night out is not analysis.

Meaning

The amount by which things differ; in statistics, a measure of spread; in planning, official permission to depart from a rule.

Examples

• “Report the variance; averaging the night out is not analysis.”
• “Variation is already in this course. Spread is everyday. An average can hide a slice. A night is a cohort. Show the spread; then average if the test allows it.”

Good to know

Difference, statistical spread, or a permitted departure. Close: variation (already in the dictionary). Averaging away a night ≠ analysis.

Near in meaning

spread

New