various different

Although the phrase various different means several different, the expression may be construed as redundant because one of the synonyms for various is different. As a result, the expression various different is often criticized.

To avoid criticism, choose various or different or several. The phrase several different is also acceptable.

  • The symposium included representatives from various (or different) countries.
  • The pasta recipe calls for several (not various) different kinds of fish and shellfish.

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