they seem to vary vs they seem variable

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different meanings. 'They seem to vary' implies that something is changing or fluctuating, while 'They seem variable' suggests that something has the potential to change or be different. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to convey the idea of current variation or the potential for variation.

Last updated: March 29, 2024 • 851 views

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to indicate that something appears to be changing or fluctuating.

"they seem to vary"

This phrase is used to describe situations where there is observable variation or inconsistency in something.

Examples:

The results seem to vary depending on the weather conditions.
Her moods seem to vary greatly from day to day.
The prices seem to vary between different stores.
His opinions seem to vary on this matter.
The quality of the product seems to vary over time.

Show examples from the web [+]

Again, it seems to vary, but you're looking at an average of about six hours.
Its incubation period seems to vary within each individual.
According to a survey made in the 10 acceding countries, the share of POP pesticides seems to vary a great deal from one country to another.
It seems to vary from time to time and place to place.
Well, rate of deterioration seems to vary from patient to patient, but in all cases, it looks like it's progressive, meaning the longer they go without treatment, the worse it gets.
They seem to flagellate, almost like protozoa.
They seem to think there's something up.
They seem to make friends easily.
Your cranial lobes, for instance, they seem to be surgical implants.
Well, they seem to have reached a decision.
They seem to think you're de GauÉÉe.
They seem to sense the path to take.
They seem to have lost their taste for plants.
They seem to like Tom, Your Honour.
They seem to be talking about their own business.
And they seem to understand what I'm talking about.
They seem to flagellate, almost like protozoa.
They seem to be all kinds of different people.
They seem to have originated from within your office.
Only that they seem to be indicating something in the sky.

Alternatives:

they appear to be changing
they seem inconsistent
they seem to fluctuate
they seem to be different
they seem to be varying

This phrase is correct and can be used to suggest that something has the potential to change or be different.

"they seem variable"

This phrase is used to imply that something is not fixed and may vary or change under different circumstances.

Examples:

The weather in this region seems variable throughout the year.
His performance seems variable depending on his mood.
The quality of the product seems variable depending on the manufacturer.
Her energy levels seem variable during the day.
The outcomes seem variable based on the input.

Show examples from the web [+]

Sometimes, it seems quite variable.
These folds, they seem functional.
Sometimes signals are not what they seem.
They seem shifty, they seem standoffish.
To me they seem permits issued by the Ministry.
They seem to flagellate, almost like protozoa.
They seem to think there's something up.
They seem to make friends easily.
Things are a little more complicated than they seem, my dear.
Your cranial lobes, for instance, they seem to be surgical implants.
Well, they seem to have reached a decision.
Things are not what they seem, Chris.
Xena - at least they seem interested in protecting me.
Things are exactly as they seem.
They seem to think you're de GauÉÉe.
They seem different, but they are the same people.
At first glance, they seem completely random.
They seem to sense the path to take.
We have the directions, but they seem completely off.
They seem to have lost their taste for plants.

Alternatives:

they seem changeable
they appear to be variable
they seem to be subject to change
they seem to be inconsistent
they seem to fluctuate

How TextRanch works

Fast and reliable proofreading, editing, and language advice tailored to your needs.

1. Choose Your Service

Quick Text Editing

Emails and short texts
Proofreading & editing
Ready in 5-10 minutes

SUBMIT YOUR TEXT NOW

Document Editing

Documents of any type (*.docx)
Advanced & Premium editing
Ready in as little as 4 hours

UPLOAD YOUR DOCUMENT

Ask an Editor

Personalized answers to your language questions
Expert guidance on grammar, style, and usage
Ready in 24 hours

ASK YOUR QUESTION

Upload your document or paste your text directly into our platform. Your text is reviewed and refined by our expert editors (real people, not machines) who understand the nuances of English. Expect corrections, improvements, and insightful suggestions that enhance the clarity, tone, and professionalism of your writing.

3. Receive Your Polished Text

In just a few minutes (or hours for longer documents), you'll receive your corrected text. Review the changes, make any final adjustments, and confidently share your polished English with the world.
You can count on a personalized, friendly service every time you use TextRanch. We're committed to helping you make a great impression with every word you write.

We proofread and edit these types of texts and documents:

Short texts Business Emails Personal Emails Social media posts Resume and Curriculum Vitae Business documents Sales proposal Research and academic papers Thesis Dissertation Essays Articles Blog posts and much more....

Why choose TextRanch?

Complete Privacy

Your texts are safe and secure with us. We never share your information with third parties.

Affordable Pricing

No subscription fees and rates up to 50% cheaper than other online editing services.

100% Satisfaction

We guarantee that you'll be satisfied with the quality of our service or your money back.

Top Customer Service

Our team is here to help you with any questions you may have. Contact us anytime.

Our Customers Love Us!

We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283125 votes, and

4.9 Excellent - Reviews 2.137

"7 years without any disappointment. Always 100% satisfied. You guys are the best in the world at what you do. Thank you so much :)"

Zubair
from Bangladesh

"I wasn't aware of this service, it's fascinating and more reliable than standard IA tools available on the internet"

Arturo
from Mexico

"In a world of text messages and online communication, this is great to have as a live tool. Thank you."

Selena
from USA

"Wow, it's just so excellent. I never would have believed I could have a sure and excellent English companion. Thanks, TextRanch."

Ifiok
from Nigeria

"This is my first time using TextRanch, and I like how the editors take time to correct my text. To everyone who has never used TextRanch before, I highly recommend trying it."

Wilson
from France

"It is an amazing source of feedback because, as a non-native speaker, I really need to have a reliable helper correct my text."

Susan
from Germany

they seem to vary vs they seem variable

"they seem to vary"

"they seem variable"

Related Comparisons

2. Submit Your Text

3. Receive Your Polished Text