Which of the following is a characteristic of a variable expense?

A variable expense is characterized by its dependence on usage or production levels. This means that as more goods or services are produced, the costs associated with these expenses can increase or decrease accordingly. For instance, materials and supplies needed for production can vary based on the quantity being produced, leading to fluctuations in total costs.

The other options highlight aspects that do not align with the nature of variable expenses. A variable expense does not remain constant, as it is directly impacted by operational factors. Additionally, while some aspects of variable expenses can be anticipated, they are not typically predictable in the same way that fixed expenses are, which allows for easier budgeting. Lastly, variable expenses are not fixed over the long term, contrasting with fixed expenses that remain stable regardless of production levels. This distinction is essential for understanding financial management in business, especially in regards to budgeting and cost control.