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Fluctuations Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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fluctuations

[flสŒk.tสƒสŠหˆeษช.สƒษ™nz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

economic changes

Fluctuations refer to the rise and fall of prices, values, or rates in the economy. These changes can be caused by various factors such as supply and demand, market conditions, or external influences.

Synonyms

changes, shifts, variations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fluctuations

Used when referring to irregular or unpredictable changes in data, prices, or conditions over time.

  • The stock market experienced significant fluctuations this week
  • The temperature fluctuations make it hard to choose appropriate clothing
variations

Appropriate for describing different forms or versions of something, or when there is a range of differences within a particular set or series.

  • There are many variations of the classic recipe
  • The study focused on the variations in plant species across different regions
changes

A general term suitable for describing any alteration, modification, or transition, whether in state, position, or character.

  • She embraced the changes in her career with enthusiasm
  • The city has seen many changes over the past decade
shifts

Used when describing a move or change in direction or position, often gradual or long-term. It can also refer to changes in time schedules.

  • There has been a significant shift in public opinion about climate change
  • The workers are scheduled to work in different shifts throughout the week

Examples of usage

  • The fluctuations in the stock market can be unpredictable.
  • The fluctuations in currency exchange rates affect international trade.
  • The fluctuations in oil prices impact the overall economy.
Context #2 | Noun

changes in quantity or level

Fluctuations can also refer to changes in quantity or level that are not consistent. These variations can occur in different aspects such as temperature, volume, or frequency.

Synonyms

changes, oscillations, variations.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fluctuations

Suitable for describing unpredictable or irregular variations, especially in data, markets, emotions, or physical conditions.

  • The stock market experiences significant fluctuations during periods of economic uncertainty.
  • Temperature fluctuations can be harsh in the desert.
variations

Appropriate for describing differences or deviations from a standard or norm in data, measurements, or observations.

  • There are variations in climate across different regions of the world.
  • The teacher noticed variations in studentsโ€™ test scores from one year to the next.
changes

Used in a broad sense to indicate any kind of alteration or modification in conditions, situations, or states over time.

  • There have been many changes in technology over the past decade.
  • She noticed changes in her mood after starting the new medication.
oscillations

Typically used in scientific, engineering, or mathematical contexts to describe regular or periodic movements back and forth.

  • The oscillations of a pendulum are predictable and regular.
  • Electrical engineers study the oscillations in AC currents.

Examples of usage

  • The fluctuations in temperature make it hard to predict the weather.
  • The fluctuations in traffic volume can affect commute times.
  • The fluctuations in heart rate can indicate health issues.
Context #3 | Verb

to vary irregularly

When used as a verb, fluctuations mean to vary irregularly in amount or quality. It implies a lack of stability or predictability in the change.

Synonyms

change, oscillate, vary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
fluctuations

Used when describing rapid or continuous variations in level or amount. Often relates to data, prices, or measurements.

  • The stock market is experiencing significant fluctuations this week
  • Temperature fluctuations can affect plant growth
vary

Used when describing differences or alterations within certain limits. Often employed to emphasize diversity or range.

  • Recipes can vary depending on the chef
  • The intensity of the exercises will vary each day
change

Used for any alteration or transformation in state, condition, or appearance. It is broad and can apply to both positive and negative alterations.

  • She decided to make a change in her career
  • The weather can change quickly in the mountains
oscillate

Used to describe movement back and forth in a regular rhythm. Often relates to physical movement, signals, or behaviors.

  • The fan blades oscillate to spread cool air evenly
  • His mood tends to oscillate between happy and sad

Examples of usage

  • The prices of commodities fluctuate based on market conditions.
  • Her mood tends to fluctuate throughout the day.
  • The quality of the product fluctuates depending on the manufacturer.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'fluctuations'

The word 'fluctuations' has Latin origins, coming from the verb 'fluctuare' which means 'to wave, undulate, or fluctuate'. The concept of fluctuations has been observed in various fields throughout history, from economics to natural sciences. The understanding of fluctuations plays a crucial role in predicting trends and patterns in different systems.

See also: fluctuate, fluctuating, fluctuation.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,370 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.