Erratically: meaning, definitions and examples
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erratically
[ɪˈratɪkli ]
Definitions
behavior
In an unpredictable or irregular manner.
Synonyms
inconsistently, randomly, unpredictably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| erratically |
Use this word when describing actions, movements, or behaviors that are unpredictable and lack a clear pattern. It's often used to describe something sudden or irregular.
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| unpredictably |
Describes actions or events that cannot be foreseen or expected. Often used when talking about changes in behavior or conditions.
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| inconsistently |
This is ideal when referring to actions or behaviors that do not maintain the same level or happen without regularity. It can be used in both personal and professional settings.
|
| randomly |
Best used to describe events or actions that appear to have no specific order or pattern. Often used in situations requiring selection or occurrence without any clear method.
|
Examples of usage
- She drove erratically, swerving in and out of lanes.
- His behavior was erratic, making it difficult to predict his next move.
performance
In a manner that lacks consistency or regularity.
Synonyms
inconsistently, sporadically, unpredictably.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| erratically |
Use to describe something that happens in an irregular or unpredictable manner, often suggesting irregularity with a hint of disorder.
|
| inconsistently |
Best used when pointing out a lack of steadiness or uniformity, typically referring to performance, behavior, or process. Often carries a negative connotation.
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| unpredictably |
Describes an action or event that cannot be foreseen or anticipated, often used to describe systems or behaviors that change without a clear pattern.
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| sporadically |
Appropriate for situations when something happens at irregular intervals but not frequently. It suggests occasional irregularity.
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Examples of usage
- The team played erratically, with moments of brilliance followed by errors.
- Her heartbeat was beating erratically, causing concern for the doctors.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'errare', which means 'to wander' or 'to stray'.
- It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, evolving from meanings related to mistakes.
- Originally used in geography, it described the unpredictable movement of celestial bodies.
Science
- In psychology, erratic behavior can indicate a response to stress or trauma, showing changes in emotional responses.
- Weather patterns can be described as erratic, especially in discussions about climate change and its impacts.
- In physics, an erratic motion can refer to objects following a non-linear path, showing chaotic behavior.
Pop Culture
- Erratic behavior is often portrayed in films and books to depict characters dealing with mental health issues or existential crises.
- In music, erratic rhythms can create feelings of tension or excitement, often used by artists to express chaos.
- Video games frequently feature erratic movement in characters, adding unpredictability to gameplay.
History
- Erratic political movements can lead to changes in government and power dynamics, often creating instability in societies.
- Historically, erratic navigation at sea was a great concern for sailors before the invention of accurate maps and compasses.
- Great leaders throughout history were sometimes seen as erratic due to their unconventional decisions that changed the course of events.
Literature
- Writers often use erratic characters to enhance plot developments, showcasing their unpredictability in critical moments.
- Classic literature sometimes portrays erratic landscapes to symbolize internal chaos or emotional turmoil of characters.
- Poetry can convey erratic themes through irregular meter, reflecting the spontaneity of thoughts and feelings.
Translations
Translations of the word "erratically" in other languages:
🇵🇹 erraticamente
🇮🇳 अनिश्चित रूप से
🇩🇪 unregelmäßig
🇮🇩 tidak menentu
🇺🇦 непередбачувано
🇵🇱 nieregularnie
🇯🇵 不規則に
🇫🇷 de manière erratique
🇪🇸 erráticamente
🇹🇷 düzensizce
🇰🇷 불규칙하게
🇸🇦 بشكل غير منتظم
🇨🇿 nepravidelně
🇸🇰 nepravidelne
🇨🇳 不规律地
🇸🇮 nepravilno
🇮🇸 óreglulega
🇰🇿 ретсіз
🇬🇪 არამყარად
🇦🇿 nizamsız olaraq
🇲🇽 erráticamente