Oscillate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to regular back and forth movement or change, typically in a mechanical or scientific context.

• The pendulum began to oscillate as soon as it was released

Commonly used to describe a wide, pronounced movement back and forth, often in physical or recreational contexts.

• Children love to swing at the playground

Typically used to describe very rapid, small movements back and forth, often in contexts relating to machines or sound.

• The phone started to vibrate when I received a message

Best for describing variations or changes that do not follow a regular pattern, often in economic or numerical contexts.

• Gas prices tend to fluctuate throughout the year

Used when describing something that swings back and forth in a regular pattern, often in a physical or mechanical context.

• The pendulum of the grandfather clock oscillates steadily.
• Her emotions oscillate between excitement and anxiety.

Best used for describing changes that do not follow a predictable pattern, often used with numbers, prices, or levels.

• Stock prices tend to fluctuate wildly during economic instability.
• Her weight tends to fluctuate depending on her diet.

Appropriate when referring to actions or states that happen in turns or one after the other. It often implies a regular, repeated sequence.

• The traffic lights alternate between red and green.
• You should alternate between jogging and walking during your workout.

Use this word when referring to differences or changes that are not regular or can be diverse. It is less specific than fluctuate.

• The weather can vary greatly from one day to the next.
• The results of the experiment vary depending on the conditions.