Fluctuation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe irregular changes in levels, quantities, or conditions over time in various domains such as finance, temperature, or market conditions.

• The stock market experienced significant fluctuation last week.
• Temperature fluctuation can affect plant growth.

Refers to differences or deviations from a standard or within a set range, often emphasizing diversity or a range of options.

• There is considerable variation in the performance of different brands of the same product.
• Genetic variation is essential for the evolution of species.

Implies a lack of stability, often with a negative connotation, referring to situations where conditions are unpredictable and may lead to chaos or problems.

• Political instability in the region has caused concern among investors.
• The building's structural instability was a serious safety hazard.

Refers to something that is continuously changing in an irregular manner, often used to depict ongoing changes over a short period.

• The patient's temperature has been fluctuating all day.
• The company's profits have been fluctuating due to market instability.

Used to describe irregular or unpredictable changes, often in terms of quantity or quality.

• The fluctuation in stock prices has made investments risky.
• Temperature fluctuation can often cause pipes to burst during winter.

Used to describe a change or difference in condition, amount, or level, usually within certain limits.

• There is a variation in the quality of products from the new supplier.
• Genetic variation is essential for the survival of species.

Used to describe movement back and forth at a regular speed, or any repeated variation. Often used in physics, engineering, or to describe cycles.

• The oscillation of the pendulum is consistent and predictable.
• The power supply underwent an oscillation that caused the lights to flicker.

Used to describe something that is continuously changing in an irregular way.

• The fluctuating currency rates are affecting international trade.
• Her mood has been fluctuating due to stress at work.

Use 'fluctuation' when describing variations or shifts in levels, amounts, or conditions, often in data, markets, or other measurable phenomena.

• The temperature fluctuation this week has been quite extreme
• Investors are concerned about the frequent fluctuations in the stock market

Use 'changeability' when discussing the capacity or tendency of something to change frequently. This term can be applied to things like weather or mood.

• The changeability of the British weather is well-known
• Her changeability in opinions makes her difficult to predict

Use 'inconstancy' to describe someone or something that is unreliable or frequently changing, especially in a negative or critical manner.

• His inconstancy in relationships has caused many problems
• The inconstancy of her loyalty made it hard to trust her

Use 'fluctuating' when describing something that is currently undergoing frequent or constant changes in level or amount.

• The company's profits have been fluctuating throughout the year
• Fluctuating prices are common in the oil industry