Translation guide
The English verb "vary" covers several related ideas: things differing from each other, something changing over time or by situation, and intentionally making changes. Japanese uses different expressions for each nuance.
To say that things are not all the same; they differ depending on the case.
Used to state that two or more things are different. Often in the form 〜によって異なる (differ depending on...).
人によって意見が異なる。
Opinions vary from person to person.
地域によって習慣が異なります。
Customs vary by region.
Means 'are various/diverse'. Emphasizes variety rather than direct comparison.
理由は様々である。
The reasons vary.
Similar to 様々 but often implies inconsistency or lack of uniformity, sometimes with a negative nuance.
品質がまちまちだ。
The quality varies (inconsistently).
To say that something is not constant; it changes depending on conditions.
General verb for 'change'. Use 〜によって変わる for 'vary depending on...'.
天気によって予定が変わる。
Plans vary depending on the weather.
季節によって景色が変わります。
The scenery varies with the seasons.
More formal than 変わる. Often used for measurable or systematic variation.
温度が大きく変化する。
The temperature varies greatly.
Literally 'not constant'. Used when something is unstable or fluctuates.
収入が一定しない。
My income varies.
To say that someone changes something to add variety or avoid monotony.
Transitive verb meaning 'to change something'. Use when the subject actively makes a change.
毎日メニューを変えている。
I vary the menu every day.
話し方を変えてみてください。
Try varying your way of speaking.
Means 'to add variation'. Often used for routines, designs, or performances.
毎日の生活に変化をつけたい。
I want to vary my daily life.
Means 'to diversify'. Used for making a range of things more varied, often in business or social contexts.
商品ラインナップを多様化する。
Vary the product lineup.
異なる describes a static difference between things. 変わる describes a change over time or in response to conditions. Do not use 異なる for 'change'.
English 'vary' often translates naturally to 〜によって異なる or 〜によって変わる. A direct translation like バリーする does not exist.