Hybrid vs. Variety — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Urooj Arif — Updated on April 29, 2024
Hybrid refers to something made by combining different elements, typically in plants or technology; variety denotes a particular type or category within a broader classification.
Difference Between Hybrid and Variety
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
A hybrid is the result of combining two different species or varieties to create a new entity, often with desired traits from both parents. Whereas a variety is a specific form or subtype within a larger group that naturally occurs or is bred for certain characteristics, without necessarily mixing distinct species.
In agriculture, hybrids are created through cross-pollination between two different plant varieties or species to produce a plant that has the best traits of both, such as disease resistance or higher yield. On the other hand, a variety refers to plants within a species that have naturally different traits or those selected and cultivated over time by humans, such as different kinds of apples or tomatoes.
Hybrid technology often refers to systems that combine different technologies or energy sources, such as hybrid cars that use both gasoline and electric power. In contrast, a variety in technology might refer to different models or types of a device, like smartphones, that have varying features and specifications.
In the context of animals, a hybrid might be an offspring resulting from the breeding of two different species, like a mule (a cross between a donkey and a horse). Conversely, a variety within an animal species would be more akin to breeds, which are differentiations within the same species, like the various breeds of dogs or cats.
The term hybrid can also apply in a metaphorical sense to describe concepts, practices, or products that blend elements from different cultures or industries, such as fusion cuisine. On the other hand, a variety in this context would refer to different forms or styles within the same cultural or industrial sector, such as varieties of dance or music genres.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Combination of two different elements
Specific type within a larger category
Common use
Agriculture, technology
Agriculture, classification of types
Purpose
Enhance traits, efficiency
Categorize, distinguish variations
Example in nature
Mule (donkey + horse)
Dog breeds (within Canis lupus)
Example in technology
Hybrid vehicles (gas + electric)
Smartphone models
Compare with Definitions
Hybrid
Resulting from or produced by crossbreeding.
Many gardeners prefer hybrid roses for their vibrant colors and resilience.
Variety
Different sorts or types.
Our company sells a variety of products ranging from books to electronics.
Hybrid
A product of mixing different cultures or ideas.
The restaurant's menu featured a hybrid of Asian and European cuisine.
Variety
A specific form or type within a larger group.
The grocery store offers a variety of apple, including Gala and Fuji.
Hybrid
Anything derived from heterogeneous sources.
The new team adopted a hybrid strategy from various successful models.
Variety
A category defined by distinctive characteristics.
This variety of quartz is notable for its exceptional clarity.
Hybrid
Composed of mixed parts.
The curriculum was a hybrid of traditional and modern teaching methods.
Variety
A subtype or breed within a species.
The Labrador Retriever is a popular variety of dog known for its friendly nature.
Hybrid
A combination of two different species or elements.
The hybrid car combines an electric motor with a conventional engine.
Variety
A version or style of something.
The festival showcased a variety of musical styles from jazz to rock.
Hybrid
(Genetics) The offspring of genetically dissimilar parents or stock, especially the offspring produced by breeding plants or animals of different varieties, species, or races.
Variety
The quality or state of being different or diverse; the absence of uniformity or monotony
It's the variety that makes my job so enjoyable
Hybrid
Something of mixed origin or composition, such as a word whose elements are derived from different languages.
Variety
A taxonomic category that ranks below subspecies (where present) or species, its members differing from others of the same subspecies or species in minor but permanent or heritable characteristics. Varieties are more often recognized in botany, in which they are designated in the style Apium graveolens (var. dulce).
Hybrid
Something having two kinds of components that produce the same or similar results, such as a vehicle powered by both an electric motor and an internal combustion engine as sources of power for the drivetrain.
Variety
The quality or condition of being various or varied; diversity
We need to add some variety to the program.
Hybrid
(biology) Offspring resulting from cross-breeding different entities, e.g. two different species or two purebred parent strains.
Variety
A number or collection of varied things, especially of a particular group; an assortment
Brought home a variety of snacks.
Hybrid
Something of mixed origin or composition; often, a tool or technology that combines the benefits of formerly separate tools or technologies.
Variety
Something that is distinguished from others of the same kind by a specific characteristic or set of characteristics
Varieties of minerals.
Varieties of socialism.
Hybrid
(linguistics) A word whose elements are derived from different languages.
Variety
A form of a language that is used by a specific social group and differs from forms used by other social groups
Regional varieties of English.
Hybrid
A hybrid vehicle (especially a car), one that runs on both fuel (gasoline/diesel) and electricity (battery or energy from the sun).
All our family drive hybrids because they're greener.
Variety
(Biology) A taxonomic subdivision of a species or subspecies consisting of a group of naturally occurring or selectively bred individuals that differ from other individuals of the species in certain minor characteristics.
Hybrid
(cycling) A bicycle that is a compromise between a road bike and a mountain bike.
Variety
A variety show.
Hybrid
(golf) A golf club that combines the characteristics of an iron and a wood.
Variety
(countable)
Hybrid
An electronic circuit constructed of individual devices bonded to a substrate or PCB.
Variety
A deviation or difference.
Hybrid
A computer that is part analog computer and part digital computer.
Variety
A specific variation of something.
Hybrid
Consisting of diverse components.
A hybrid mix of jazz and punk
Variety
A collection or number of different things.
Hybrid
(of a car) Running on both fuel (gasoline/diesel) and electricity (battery or energy from the sun).
Variety
Ellipsis of|en|variety performance}} or {{ellipsis of variety show
Hybrid
The offspring of the union of two animals or plants derived from recognizably different genetic lines, as two distinct species, or two strains of the same species with known genetic differences; an animal or plant produced from the mixture of two genetic lines. See Mongrel.
Variety
(uncountable)
Hybrid
A word composed of elements which belong to different languages.
Variety
The quality of being varied; diversity.
Variety is the spice of life.
Hybrid
Anything derived by a mixture of components or characteristics from two distinctly different sources; as, a musical hybrid; a DNA-RNA hybrid.
Variety
The kind of entertainment given in variety performances or shows; also, the production of, or performance in, variety performances or shows.
Hybrid
Produced from the mixture of two genetically distinct strains; as, plants of hybrid nature.
Variety
The quality or state of being various; intermixture or succession of different things; diversity; multifariousness.
Variety is nothing else but a continued novelty.
The variety of colors depends upon the composition of light.
For earth hath this variety from heaven.
There is a variety in the tempers of good men.
Hybrid
Derived by a mixture of characteristics from two distinctly different sources; as, a hybrid musical style; a hybrid DNA molecule.
Variety
That which is various.
Hybrid
A word that is composed of parts from different languages (e.g., `monolingual' has a Greek prefix and a Latin root)
Variety
A number or collection of different things; a varied assortment; as, a variety of cottons and silks.
He . . . wants more time to do that variety of good which his soul thirsts after.
Hybrid
A composite of mixed origin;
The vice-presidency is a hybrid of administrative and legislative offices
Variety
Such entertainment as in given in variety shows; the production of, or performance in, variety shows.
All sorts are here that all the earth yields!Variety without end.
But see in all corporeal nature's scene,What changes, what diversities, have been!
Hybrid
An organism that is the offspring of genetically dissimilar parents or stock; especially offspring produced by breeding plants or animals of different varieties or breeds or species;
A mule is a cross between a horse and a donkey
Variety
Something varying or differing from others of the same general kind; one of a number of things that are akin; a sort; as, varieties of wood, land, rocks, etc.
Hybrid
Produced by crossbreeding
Variety
An individual, or group of individuals, of a species differing from the rest in some one or more of the characteristics typical of the species, and capable either of perpetuating itself for a period, or of being perpetuated by artificial means; hence, a subdivision, or peculiar form, of a species.
Variety
In inorganic nature, one of those forms in which a species may occur, which differ in minor characteristics of structure, color, purity of composition, etc.
Variety
A collection containing a variety of sorts of things;
A great assortment of cars was on display
He had a variety of disorders
A veritable smorgasbord of religions
Variety
Noticeable heterogeneity;
A diversity of possibilities
The range and variety of his work is amazing
Variety
(biology) a taxonomic category consisting of members of a species that differe from others of the same species in minor but heritable characteristics;
Varieties are frequently recognized in botany
Variety
A show consisting of a series of short unrelated performances
Variety
A category of things distinguished by some common characteristic or quality;
Sculpture is a form of art
What kinds of desserts are there?
Variety
A difference that is usually pleasant;
He goes to France for variety
It is a refreshing change to meet a woman mechanic
Common Curiosities
Can a variety be a hybrid?
Yes, a variety can be a hybrid if it is a subtype formed from crossbreeding within a species.
How are hybrids used in agriculture?
In agriculture, hybrids are used to create plants with improved traits, such as higher yields or disease resistance.
What distinguishes a variety from a breed?
A variety refers more broadly to any type within a species, while a breed specifically refers to classifications within domesticated species.
What are examples of technological hybrids?
Examples include hybrid cars, hybrid solar-wind power systems, and hybrid smart devices.
How does variety contribute to biodiversity?
Variety within species contributes to biodiversity by allowing adaptation to different environments and conditions.
How are new varieties developed?
New varieties are often developed through selective breeding and genetic modification.
Is a hybrid more valuable than a variety?
The value depends on the context and desired traits; hybrids are often valued for their enhanced characteristics.
What is a variety?
A variety is a specific type within a larger classification, defined by distinct characteristics.
What is a hybrid?
A hybrid is an entity formed by combining two different elements, often to enhance desirable traits.
Can hybrids occur naturally?
While hybrids can occur naturally, they are more commonly the result of deliberate crossbreeding.
What is the role of variety in consumer products?
Variety in consumer products caters to diverse preferences and needs, enhancing consumer satisfaction.
What is a cultural hybrid?
A cultural hybrid is something that incorporates elements from different cultural backgrounds.
Why are hybrid strategies used in business?
Hybrid strategies are used in business to combine the strengths of various approaches to achieve better outcomes.
What are examples of hybrids in everyday life?
Examples include hybrid bicycles, hybrid learning models (online and in-person), and hybrid careers that blend different skill sets.
Can hybrid animals reproduce?
Many hybrid animals, like mules, are sterile and cannot reproduce.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
