Top 35 Slang For Vary – Meaning & Usage

Variety is the spice of life, and understanding the different ways to express “vary” can add a touch of flair to your conversations. Join us as we unravel the diverse and colorful slang terms that can replace the mundane word “vary.” Whether you’re looking to spice up your vocabulary or simply curious about the language trends, this listicle is sure to pique your interest and broaden your linguistic horizons.

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1. Fluctuate

To fluctuate means to change or vary, typically in an unpredictable or irregular manner. It implies a back-and-forth movement or a rise and fall.

For example, “The prices of stocks in the market fluctuate daily.”
In a conversation about weight loss, someone might say, “My weight tends to fluctuate depending on my diet and exercise.”
A weather report might state, “Temperatures will fluctuate throughout the week, with highs reaching 80 degrees and lows dropping to 60 degrees.”

2. Oscillate

To oscillate means to move or swing back and forth between two points or states. It suggests a regular or repetitive pattern of variation.

For instance, “The pendulum on a clock oscillates between left and right.”
In a discussion about public opinion, someone might say, “Voters often oscillate between political parties in different elections.”
A person talking about emotions might mention, “My feelings towards him oscillate between love and hate.”

3. Shift

To shift means to move or change position, direction, or focus. It implies a deliberate or intentional action to bring about a difference.

For example, “The company decided to shift its manufacturing operations to a different country.”
In a conversation about career choices, someone might say, “I’m considering shifting my focus from marketing to graphic design.”
A person discussing societal changes might mention, “There has been a shift in public opinion regarding climate change in recent years.”

4. Modify

To modify means to make changes or alterations to something, often with the intention of improving or adjusting it.

For instance, “She modified her diet to include more fruits and vegetables.”
In a discussion about car customization, someone might say, “I want to modify my car’s exhaust system for a louder sound.”
A person talking about a software update might mention, “The latest version of the app has modified the user interface for a more intuitive experience.”

5. Alter

To alter means to make something different without completely changing its essence or nature. It suggests a subtle or partial change.

For example, “She altered her dress by shortening the hem.”
In a conversation about home decor, someone might say, “I want to alter the color scheme of my living room.”
A person discussing personal growth might mention, “Traveling can alter your perspective and expand your horizons.”

6. Change up

To make a change or variation in something, often to avoid monotony or add excitement.

For example, in a workout routine, one might say, “I need to change up my exercises to challenge my muscles.”
In a cooking recipe, a chef might suggest, “Feel free to change up the spices to suit your taste.”
A person discussing their fashion choices might say, “I like to change up my style depending on my mood.”

7. Diversify

To add variety or different elements to something in order to make it more diverse or inclusive.

For instance, a company might aim to diversify its workforce by hiring people from different backgrounds.
In a portfolio of investments, an advisor might recommend, “You should diversify your holdings to minimize risk.”
A person discussing their reading habits might say, “I try to diversify my book choices by exploring different genres.”

8. Deviate

To depart from the usual or expected path or behavior.

For example, in a conversation about traditional gender roles, someone might argue, “It’s important to deviate from societal expectations.”
In a project plan, a team leader might say, “We need to deviate from the original timeline in order to accommodate new requirements.”
A person discussing their travel plans might say, “I like to deviate from the touristy spots and explore hidden gems.”

9. Mutate

To undergo a significant change or transformation, often in a biological or genetic context.

For instance, a virus can mutate and become more resistant to treatment.
In a discussion about evolution, a scientist might say, “Species mutate over time in response to their environment.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I feel like I’ve mutated into a completely different person after going through that experience.”

10. Transform

To undergo a dramatic or profound change in form, appearance, or character.

For example, a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly through metamorphosis.
In a discussion about urban development, someone might say, “The city has transformed over the years into a bustling metropolis.”
A person discussing their fitness journey might say, “Regular exercise has transformed my body and improved my overall health.”

11. Switch up

To change or alter something, often unexpectedly or abruptly. “Switch up” is a colloquial term used to describe a sudden change in behavior, plans, or circumstances.

For example, a person might say, “I decided to switch up my hairstyle and go for a completely different look.”
In a conversation about workout routines, someone might suggest, “Switching up your exercises can help prevent plateauing.”
A friend might ask, “Do you want to switch up the restaurant and try something new tonight?”

12. Vacillate

To hesitate or be indecisive between two or more options. “Vacillate” is a formal term often used to describe someone who is unable to make a firm decision.

For instance, a person might say, “I vacillated between ordering pizza or sushi for dinner.”
In a discussion about career choices, someone might admit, “I’ve been vacillating between pursuing a stable job or following my passion.”
A friend might ask, “Why do you always vacillate when it comes to making plans?”

13. Yo-yo

To go back and forth between two extremes or positions. “Yo-yo” is a slang term used to describe a repetitive pattern of ups and downs or inconsistent behavior.

For example, in a conversation about weight loss, someone might say, “I’ve been yo-yo dieting for years, losing and gaining the same 10 pounds.”
A person discussing the stock market might say, “The market has been yo-yoing lately, with unpredictable fluctuations.”
A friend might comment, “Your mood seems to yo-yo a lot lately. Are you okay?”

14. Rotate

To regularly change or alternate between different options or positions. “Rotate” is a straightforward term often used to describe a systematic or planned change.

For instance, in a discussion about chores, someone might suggest, “Let’s rotate the responsibility of doing the dishes each week.”
A person talking about tires might say, “It’s important to rotate your car’s tires to ensure even wear.”
A friend might suggest, “Let’s rotate the location of our weekly hangouts to keep things interesting.”

15. Morph

To gradually or dramatically change in form or appearance. “Morph” is a slang term often used to describe a noticeable or significant transformation.

For example, in a conversation about fashion, someone might say, “Her style has morphed over the years, from punk to bohemian.”
A person talking about technology might say, “Cell phones have morphed into powerful handheld computers.”
A friend might comment, “Your hair color seems to morph every time I see you. I love it!”

16. Evolve

Evolve refers to the process of gradual change and development over time. It can be used to describe the progression or transformation of something.

For example, “The company has evolved from a small startup to a multinational corporation.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might say, “Smartphones have evolved significantly in the past decade.”
A biologist might explain, “Organisms evolve through the process of natural selection.”

17. Transition

Transition refers to the act of moving or changing from one state or condition to another. It can be used to describe a shift or conversion.

For instance, “She transitioned from a career in finance to a career in art.”
In a conversation about puberty, someone might say, “Adolescence is a period of transition from childhood to adulthood.”
A person discussing a change in government might say, “The country is currently undergoing a transition to a new political system.”

18. Metamorphose

Metamorphose means to undergo a complete or profound change. It often refers to a transformation that results in a completely different form or state.

For example, “The caterpillar metamorphoses into a butterfly.”
In a discussion about personal growth, someone might say, “Traveling can help you metamorphose into a more open-minded person.”
A person describing a major life event might say, “Becoming a parent has metamorphosed my priorities and perspective.”

19. Sway

Sway refers to the act of influencing or having an impact on something or someone. It can be used to describe the power to persuade or change.

For instance, “Her passionate speech swayed the audience to support her cause.”
In a conversation about politics, someone might say, “Public opinion can sway the outcome of an election.”
A person discussing a decision-making process might say, “Personal biases can sway our judgment.”

20. Veer

Veer means to change direction suddenly. It is often used to describe a sharp or abrupt change in course or movement.

For example, “The car veered off the road and into a ditch.”
In a discussion about weather, someone might say, “The storm veered eastward, sparing our town from severe damage.”
A person describing a change in plans might say, “We had to veer from our original itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances.”

21. Waver

To be indecisive or uncertain about a decision or opinion. It can also refer to a wavering motion.

For example, “I’m wavering between two options for dinner tonight.”
In a political context, someone might say, “The candidate’s stance on the issue seemed to waver throughout the campaign.”
A person discussing their career path might admit, “I’ve been wavering between staying in my current job or pursuing something new.”

22. Flit

To move or pass quickly and lightly from one place or thing to another. It can also refer to a person who is fickle or flighty.

For instance, “Butterflies flit from flower to flower.”
A person might say, “I’ve been flitting around all day, trying to get things done.”
In a conversation about relationships, someone might comment, “He’s a flit, always jumping from one person to the next.”

23. Go back and forth

To alternate between two options or opinions, or to be indecisive about a choice.

For example, “We went back and forth on where to go for vacation.”
In a debate, someone might say, “They went back and forth on the issue for hours.”
A person discussing their relationship might admit, “We’ve been going back and forth about whether to break up or try to work things out.”

24. See-saw

To alternate or fluctuate between two extremes or opposite positions.

For instance, “The stock market has been see-sawing for the past week.”
In a discussion about emotions, someone might say, “I’ve been see-sawing between happiness and sadness lately.”
A person might comment on a relationship, “Their feelings for each other seem to see-saw constantly.”

25. Undulate

To move with a smooth, wavelike motion or to have a rising and falling appearance.

For example, “The ocean waves undulate in a mesmerizing pattern.”
In a conversation about art, someone might say, “The undulating lines in that painting create a sense of movement.”
A person discussing their mood might admit, “My emotions undulate throughout the day, sometimes without any apparent reason.”

26. Shuffle

To shuffle means to change or mix things up. It can refer to rearranging a deck of cards or changing the order or position of things.

For example, “Let’s shuffle the seating arrangement to keep things interesting.”
In a discussion about music playlists, someone might say, “I like to shuffle my songs so I never know what’s coming next.”
A person describing their work routine might say, “I like to shuffle my tasks throughout the day to stay motivated.”

27. Shift gears

To shift gears means to change direction or approach. It often refers to changing one’s focus or strategy in order to adapt to a new situation.

For instance, “After failing in the first round, I decided to shift gears and try a different approach.”
In a conversation about career changes, someone might say, “I’m ready to shift gears and pursue a completely different industry.”
A person discussing their personal growth might say, “I realized I needed to shift gears and prioritize my mental health.”

28. Ebb and flow

Ebb and flow refers to the natural rise and fall or fluctuation of something. It can describe the changing patterns or cycles of a situation or phenomenon.

For example, “Relationships have their ebb and flow – there are ups and downs.”
In a discussion about the stock market, someone might say, “Investing requires understanding the ebb and flow of market trends.”
A person describing their creative process might say, “I find inspiration in the ebb and flow of my emotions.”

29. See a change

To see a change means to notice a difference or variation in something. It can refer to observing a shift or transformation in a particular situation or aspect.

For instance, “After implementing the new strategy, we started to see a change in our sales.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “I’ve been working on myself, and others are starting to see a change in me.”
A person discussing climate change might say, “We need to take action now before we see irreversible changes in our environment.”

30. Go through phases

To go through phases means to experience different stages or periods. It often refers to temporary shifts in behavior, interests, or preferences.

For example, “Teenagers often go through phases of rebellion and experimentation.”
In a discussion about fashion, someone might say, “I used to dress very differently – I’ve gone through many phases.”
A person reflecting on their past might say, “Looking back, I realize I went through phases of self-discovery and exploration.”

31. Differ

To be dissimilar or not the same as something else. “Differ” is often used to describe a contrast or distinction between two or more things.

For example, in a debate, someone might say, “I differ from my opponent’s viewpoint on this issue.”
A teacher might explain, “Each student’s answer will differ based on their interpretation of the prompt.”
In a group discussion, someone might ask, “Does anyone have a differing opinion on this matter?”

32. Vary

To change or fluctuate in some way, often in terms of quantity, quality, or degree. “Vary” is used to describe differences or variations that can occur in various contexts.

For instance, a weather report might state, “Temperatures will vary throughout the week.”
In a recipe, it might say, “You can vary the spices based on your personal preference.”
A fashion magazine might suggest, “Vary your wardrobe by adding different accessories.”

33. Diverge

To separate or branch off from a common point or path. “Diverge” is often used to describe a split or deviation in ideas, opinions, or paths.

For example, during a brainstorming session, someone might say, “Let’s diverge from the traditional approach and explore new ideas.”
In a discussion about future plans, one person might suggest, “Our paths might diverge after graduation, but let’s stay connected.”
A teacher might explain, “The two theories diverge in their explanations of human behavior.”

34. Alternate

To take turns or switch between two or more options or possibilities. “Alternate” is often used to describe a pattern of alternating or rotating.

For instance, in a schedule, it might say, “Alternate between cardio and strength training.”
In a conversation, someone might say, “Let’s alternate speaking, so everyone has a chance to share their thoughts.”
A driver might suggest, “We can alternate driving duties during the road trip.”

35. Flip-flop

To change one’s opinion, stance, or position on a particular matter. “Flip-flop” is often used to describe a sudden or frequent change in viewpoint.

For example, in politics, a candidate might be accused of flip-flopping on certain issues.
In a debate, someone might say, “You can’t just flip-flop your position whenever it’s convenient.”
A friend might jokingly comment, “You flip-flop so much, I can’t keep up with your opinions!”