Translation guide
Expresses that there are many different kinds or types of something. In Japanese, this is often conveyed with adjectives like 様々な (samazama na) or 色々な (iroiro na), or with noun phrases like 多種多様 (tashu tayō). The choice depends on formality and context.
To say that there are multiple types or a wide range of something.
A common, slightly formal adjective meaning 'various' or 'diverse'. Used before nouns.
この店では様々な種類のパンが売られている。
A variety of breads are sold at this store.
A very common, casual to neutral adjective meaning 'various'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
色々な国の料理を食べてみたい。
I want to try a variety of cuisines from different countries.
A more formal or written expression emphasizing a wide variety. Often used in reports or articles.
この地域には多種多様な動植物が生息している。
A wide variety of flora and fauna inhabit this region.
A formal, somewhat literary term meaning 'various'. Often used in technical or official contexts.
種々の理由により、計画は延期された。
The plan was postponed for a variety of reasons.
To emphasize the breadth or diversity of something, often with a nuance of abundance.
An adjective meaning 'wide-ranging' or 'extensive'. Used to describe a broad spectrum of things.
彼は幅広い知識を持っている。
He has a wide variety of knowledge.
A formal phrase meaning 'covering a wide range' or 'diverse'. Often used in business or academic contexts.
彼の研究は多岐にわたる分野に及んでいる。
His research spans a variety of fields.
To refer to a collection of different items, often in a commercial or physical sense.
A noun meaning 'assortment' or 'lineup'. Commonly used in retail to describe a range of products.
当店では豊富な取り揃えのワインをご用意しております。
We offer a wide variety of wines at our store.
A loanword from English, often used in entertainment or casual contexts to mean 'variety'.
この番組はバラエティに富んだ内容だ。
This show has a variety of content.
Both mean 'various', but 様々な is slightly more formal and often used in writing or polite speech. 色々な is more common in casual conversation. In many situations they are interchangeable, but 色々な can sound too informal in a business report.
色々な意見を聞かせてください。
Please tell me your various opinions. (casual request)
様々な角度から検討する必要がある。
We need to consider it from various angles. (formal context)
The English phrase 'a variety of' is often not directly translated as a single word. Instead, Japanese uses adjectives like 様々な or 色々な before the noun. Using a noun phrase like 多様性 (tayōsei) would mean 'diversity' as a concept, not 'a variety of things'.
この都市は多様性に富んでいる。
This city is rich in diversity. (not 'a variety of')
この都市は多様性に富んでいる。
This city is rich in diversity. (not 'a variety of')