Variety Is the Spice of Life—Going Beyond Monotony

Variety is the spice of life means life is more interesting when you try new things to vary your experiences. This idiom conveys the idea that a mixture of elements contributes to a more enjoyable and fulfilling existence.

An idiom, like variety is the spice of life, is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal definitions of its individual words. Instead, it conveys a figurative or cultural meaning often unique to a specific language or community. Idioms play a crucial role in the English language by adding color, nuance, and cultural context to communication.

In this article, I explain what this idiom means, reveal where it came from, and provide some handy tips on using it to the best effect. I also include some related terms and variations of the idiom. After reading the guide, test your newly found knowledge by taking the quick quiz I whipped up for you!

What Does the Idiom Variety Is the Spice of Life Mean?

The idiom variety is the spice of life suggests that having a diverse range of experiences, options, or activities enhances and adds interest to one’s life. It encourages individuals to appreciate and seek out various experiences for a more enriching and satisfying life.

Collins Dictionary states the phrase is “said to mean that doing and seeing a lot of different things makes life more enjoyable and interesting.” Similarly, the Cambridge Dictionary says that the idiom is “said to emphasize that doing many different things, or often changing what you do, makes life interesting.”

When chatting with a friend recently, she told me that after 25 years of always visiting the Greek islands on vacation, she was planning to go somewhere she’d never been before. When I asked her why there was a sudden change in her plans, she simply said, “Variety is the spice of life!”

Variations of the Idiom

Here are some variations of the idiom variety is the spice of life:

• Diversity is the spice of life
• Novelty is the spice of life
• Spice up your life

How Is Variety Is the Spice of Life Commonly Used in Context?

The idiom variety is the spice of life is a popular expression used to convey the idea that experiencing a diverse range of things makes life more interesting and enjoyable. It suggests that embracing different activities, interests, and perspectives adds flavor and richness to one’s existence.

So, let’s delve into how this idiom is commonly employed and uncover tips for incorporating it effectively. Additionally, you can find examples that showcase its usage in various contexts, providing a deeper understanding of the phrase.

What Are the Different Ways to Use the Idiom Variety Is the Spice of Life?

• Literal use: “Adding different ingredients to your recipes is like painting with flavors; variety is literally the spice of life in the kitchen!”
• In the workplace: “In my team, we encourage diverse skills and perspectives. Variety is the spice of life, and it fuels innovation.”
• Travel: “I love to explore different cultures and countries, and variety is the spice of life when it comes to choosing vacation destinations.”
• Relationships: “Every relationship has its ups and downs, and sometimes a change is as good as a rest. When it comes to matters of the heart, variety is the spice of life.” 
• Studying and learning: “In education, variety is the spice of life, and studying various subjects gives students a well-rounded knowledge base.”

What Are Some Tips for Using the Idiom Variety Is the Spice of Life Effectively?

• Context matters: Be sure that using the idiom fits the context appropriately and enhances your message. 
• Be specific: Provide specific examples where variety has improved your life to add clarity and depth to the expression.
• Relate to your audience: Make the idiom relatable and relevant to the interests and experiences of your audience for greater impact.
• Avoid overuse: Although this idiom is very versatile, using it too often dilutes its impact. Save the phrase to emphasize the key points of your message.
• Use in positive contexts: The expression is typically used to convey an optimistic, positive message, so ensure that using it fits with the tone of your conversation or writing.
• Use the idiom in varied settings: Unlike many idioms, it can be used in personal, professional, and creative contexts, so use this expression in different settings to showcase its versatility. 

Where Can You Find Examples of the Idiom Variety Is the Spice of Life?

This old idiom dates back to the 1700s but is still popular today. You’ll find it used across different media, including TV shows, movies, online, books, and public speeches.

This idiom has also been quoted by various online publications, like these examples:

“Because I think variety is the spice of life, every brewery is going to have something a little different to offer.” (The Daily Breeze)

Variety is the spice of life, and that is certainly true of the theater offerings in upcoming weeks. (The Shreveport Times)

What Is the Origin of the Idiom Variety Is the Spice of Life?

William Cowper coined the idiom, although the exact quote is “Variety’s the very spice of life,” which Cowper wrote in 1785 as a comment on rapidly changing fashion. 

Though the sentiment of embracing variety and change in your circumstances as the key to an interesting life and a deterrent to boredom dates back to the first century B.C., William Cowper is credited with authoring this proverbial expression.

How Did the Idiom Evolve Over Time?

While the phrasing of the idiom has been slightly modified to its current form, variety is the spice of life, its core essence has remained largely unchanged. Yet its application has broadened, reflecting our modern understanding of life’s complexity and our ongoing quest for novelty and diversity. 

What Are Some Related Terms to Variety Is the Spice of Life?

The best way to learn how and when to use the idiom is to consider related terms like antonyms and synonyms. You can often weave these words and phrases into your prose to add interest and diversity. Remember, variety is the spice of life, after all!

Synonyms

• A change is as good as a rest
• Assortment
• Array
• Change
• Collection
• Diversity

Antonyms

• Monotony is the bane of my life
• Uniformity is the blandness of life
• Consistency is the routine of life
• Predictability
• Homogeneity is dull
• Sameness
• Blandness

What Have We Learned about Variety Is the Spice of Life?

In this article, we have learned that the idiom variety is the spice of life means that making changes to your routine makes life more interesting and enjoyable.

The idiom has its roots in the 1785 written work by William Cowper, who coined the expression. However, the sentiment of making changes to your routine as the key to an interesting life is believed to date back as far as the first century B.C.

This idiom should be used in a positive context to express your optimism about potentially life-changing actions you’re planning to take. You can use the idiom in both casual and more formal situations, and it’s heard across many different media.