Oscillation: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this term in a scientific or technical context to describe a regular back-and-forth motion over a period of time.

• The oscillation of the pendulum was measured precisely.
• The electrical oscillation in the circuit affected the signal strength.

Commonly used to describe a rapid back-and-forth movement, often small in amplitude and usually felt or measured more than seen, typically related to machinery or sounds.

• The vibration from the washing machine was making the floor shake.
• She could feel the vibration of the bass through the floor.

Perfect for describing a back-and-forth motion with a wider arc, often used for physical objects like swings or when people move with momentum.

• The children were swinging on the playground swings.
• He was swinging the golf club confidently.

Best for informal or everyday descriptions of gentle back-and-forth movements, such as those caused by wind or people.

• The trees were swaying in the breeze.
• She was swaying to the music.

Used often in physics and engineering to describe a regular back and forth movement. Often implies a predictable and repeating pattern.

• The oscillation of the pendulum kept the clock running smoothly.
• In electrical engineering, an oscillator circuit produces continuous oscillation.

Commonly used to describe changes that are less regular and predictable, especially in contexts like economics, weather, and other variable phenomena.

• The fluctuation in stock prices makes it hard to predict future trends.
• Temperature fluctuations can cause some materials to expand and contract.

Describes a change or difference in condition, amount, or level, typically with respect to something that has a range of different outcomes.

• There is a lot of variation in the sizes of apples from this orchard.
• Musical themes often have variations that keep the piece interesting.

Often describes a small, gentle wave or undulation, usually on the surface of water. Can also be used metaphorically to describe minor effects that spread outward.

• A single pebble caused ripples across the calm lake.
• The news caused a ripple of excitement through the community.

Used when referring to regular, rhythmic movements or vibrations, often in a physical or scientific context.

• The pendulum's oscillation was mesmerizing.
• Electrical engineers often study the oscillation of circuits.

Appropriate when referring to irregular and unpredictable changes, often in value, level, or degree.

• The stock market experienced significant fluctuation this week.
• Weather patterns show considerable fluctuation in terms of temperature.

Best used to describe a situation where two things take turns or regularly switch from one to the other.

• The alternation between day and night keeps our biological clocks in check.
• This pattern shows an alternation of stripes in different colors.

Used for describing movements or changes that happen gradually or are in transition, often implying change in position or direction.

• The shifting sands of the desert created new dunes overnight.
• There is a shifting attitude towards environmental policies.