Variable Costs: Costs that change in proportion to the good or service that a business produces.

Variable costs are expenses that change in proportion to the production output or activity level of a business. Unlike fixed costs, which remain constant irrespective of a company's level of output, variable costs fluctuate based on the volume of goods or services produced.

Key points to understand about variable costs are:

1. Nature: Variable costs directly correspond to the level of production. If a company increases its production levels, its variable costs will also increase proportionally. Conversely, if production levels drop, variable costs will decrease.
2. Examples: Common examples of variable costs include direct materials, direct labor, and utilities such as electricity and gas used in the production process. If a company produces more goods, it will need more materials and labor, and likely more utilities, leading to higher variable costs.
3. Implication on Profitability: Variable costs directly affect a company's profitability. Higher variable costs reduce the gross margin, while lower variable costs increase it. Companies often aim to reduce variable costs per unit to maintain or increase profitability.
4. Role in Pricing Decisions: Variable costs play a pivotal role in pricing decisions. When setting the price for a product or service, a company must ensure that it is high enough to cover both the variable and fixed costs.

Understanding variable costs is crucial in corporate finance and accounting, as it supports effective budgeting, pricing, and financial planning. It allows businesses to make strategic decisions and enhance their financial performance.