variant
Loading your saved state.
variant / version
One of several possible forms or versions of something that differs slightly from the original or standard.
Dieses Automodell gibt es in mehreren Varianten, auch mit Elektromotor.
This car model is available in several variants, including one with an electric motor.
'Variante' (variant) belongs to the word family of 'variieren' (to vary). If there are several variants of something, it means that the characteristics of that thing vary (change).
Die Preise variieren je nach Saison.
The prices vary depending on the season.
'Variante' is very often used with the preposition 'von' and the dative to name the original or basic form.
Das ist eine vegetarische Variante des klassischen Gerichts.
That is a vegetarian version of the classic dish.
Common adjectives combined with 'Variante' are 'eine neue' (a new), 'eine andere' (another), 'eine alternative' (an alternative), 'eine moderne' (a modern), or 'eine seltene Variante' (a rare variant).
Für dieses Rezept existiert auch eine leichtere Variante mit weniger Zucker.
There is also a lighter version of this recipe with less sugar.
This specific meaning of 'Variante' is found almost exclusively in the context of strategy games such as chess. It often appears together with words like 'Eröffnung' (opening), 'Zug' (move), or 'Verteidigung' (defense).
Der Großmeister entschied sich für eine riskante Variante in der Eröffnung.
The grandmaster chose a risky variation in the opening.
form / shape
'die Form' and 'die Variante' can both have to do with a particular version or realization of something. 'die Form' more often describes the shape, structure, or way something appears. 'die Variante' is used when there are several possible versions and one of them is slightly different. Learners may confuse the words because people sometimes say 'eine andere Form' (a different form) or 'eine andere Variante' (a different variant). 'Variante' is more precise when choosing between several possibilities. 'Form' fits better when the outer shape or the manner of presentation is important.
Wir nehmen die günstigere Variante, weil sie für unser Projekt reicht.
We’ll take the cheaper version because it is enough for our project.
Der Tisch hat eine runde Form und passt gut in die kleine Küche.
The table has a round shape and fits well in the small kitchen.