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Meaning & use

good variety

phrase·Everyday

Last updated

UK/ˌɡʊd vəˈraɪəti/
US/ˌɡʊd vəˈraɪəti/

Meanings

  1. phrasefixed phrase

    A large and pleasing range of different things or types.

    Grammar: Usually used as a good variety of + plural noun, and often after there is/are or have.

    Patterns

    • a good variety of something
    • have a good variety of something
    • offer a good variety of something

    The bookstore has a good variety of children's books in many languages.

    There is a good variety of food at the market, from fresh fruit to grilled meat.

    The course offers a good variety of activities, so students never get bored.

  2. phrasefixed phrase

    A pleasing amount of difference or change within something.

    Grammar: Used without of when variety means 'change and difference' in general: The menu has good variety.

    Patterns

    • have good variety
    • add good variety to something

    The new teacher added good variety to the lessons with games and videos.

    For a small restaurant, the menu has good variety.

Common combinations

a good variety of
The shop sells a good variety of teas from around the world.
offer a good variety
The gym offers a good variety of classes, including yoga and boxing.
a good variety to choose from
There was a good variety to choose from at the buffet.
add good variety to
The guest speakers added good variety to the conference.

Synonyms and how they differ

wide range
Wide range is more formal and focuses on the number of different items; good variety also suggests the choice is pleasing or interesting.
selection
Selection often refers to the items available to choose from, while good variety emphasizes the differences among them.
assortment
Assortment is a more formal or business word for a collection of different types, often used about goods in a shop.

Opposites

lack of varietymonotony

Word family

variety noun
The quality of being different or a collection of different things.
various adjective
Several different ones: various reasons.
varied adjective
Consisting of many different types: a varied diet.

Commonly confused: good variety or variety?

good variety vs variety

Variety alone can mean a type or kind (a variety of apple) or the quality of being varied; good variety is only the positive quantity phrase.

Practice

The library has a good variety ______ magazines for young readers.

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