Capricious Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
ðŸŽ
capricious
[kəˈprɪʃəs ]
Definitions
behavior
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She was a capricious woman, never knowing what she wanted.
- His capricious nature made it difficult to predict his reactions.
- The weather in April can be quite capricious, with sun one moment and rain the next.
decision-making
Likely to change your mind suddenly and without reason.
Synonyms
arbitrary, unpredictable, whimsical.
Examples of usage
- Her capricious nature made her a challenging boss to work for.
- The capricious nature of the market makes it difficult to predict future trends.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Capricious behavior can often be linked to mood swings, where someone may act drastically different based on their feelings.
- Studies suggest that unpredictability in behavior can cause stress in relationships, as people find it hard to adapt.
- People who are described as capricious may also be seen as creative, often leading to innovative ideas and surprising outcomes.
Pop Culture
- The term is often used in literature and film to describe characters whose actions can be surprising or unreasonable, adding an element of suspense.
- In fashion, capricious style refers to trends that change quickly and are often influenced by whim rather than practicality.
- Capricious characters in pop culture, like the Joker from Batman, showcase this unpredictability vividly.
Nature
- Weather can be described as capricious when it changes suddenly, such as a sunny day turning into a storm in minutes.
- Some animals exhibit capricious behaviors as part of their survival tactics, switching feeding grounds based on availability.
- In gardening, capricious climates can challenge plant growth, as conditions can vary unexpectedly.
Origin of 'capricious'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Italian word 'capriccio', which means a sudden change of mind.
- It is derived from 'capra', meaning goat, reflecting the idea of unpredictability like a goat's erratic movements.
- The term became popular in English in the early 19th century, often used to describe whimsical art or behavior.
The word 'capricious' has its origins in the late 16th century, deriving from the Italian 'capriccioso' and the French 'capricieux'. It is related to the word 'caprice', meaning a sudden and unaccountable change of mood or behavior. The term has been used to describe people, weather, decisions, and market trends, emphasizing the unpredictable and changeable nature of the subject.
See also: capriciously.