Oscillations: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'oscillations' in a scientific or technical context to describe repetitive, back-and-forth movement or fluctuation around a central point. Often applied in physics, engineering, and related fields.

• The oscillations of the pendulum were measured in precise intervals.
• Electrical circuits often exhibit oscillations due to alternating currents.

'Vibrations' is suitable for describing small, often rapid, movements and is commonly used in both everyday and scientific contexts. It can also imply a broader range of contexts, including sound and sensation.

• The heavy construction nearby caused noticeable vibrations in the buildings.
• Musicians can feel the vibrations of the instruments as they play.

Applied when describing rapid, minute oscillatory movements, often in scientific contexts or when referring to mechanical parts.

• The vibrating motions of the washing machine could be felt throughout the house.
• Engineers noted the vibrating motions of the machinery during the test.

'Swings' is commonly used in everyday language to describe the back-and-forth motion, typically in a playground or in a figurative sense to describe changes. It feels more casual compared to technical terms.

• The children enjoyed the swings at the playground.
• The stock market experienced significant swings over the last quarter.

This term is often used in scientific and technical contexts to describe a regular back-and-forth movement in a system. It implies a periodic motion, such as in physics or engineering.

• The pendulum's oscillations were measured to determine the gravitational constant

This word is typically used to describe irregular changes or variations, especially in statistics, finance, and natural phenomena. It implies unpredictability.

• The stock market experienced significant fluctuations yesterday, causing concerns among investors

This term is generally used to describe any change or difference in a set of data, conditions, or elements. It is versatile and can be applied in various fields such as biology, music, and general usage.

• There are many variations of this recipe, each adding a unique flavour

Often used in everyday language and informal contexts, 'swings' can refer to substantial changes or movements in opinions, moods, or conditions.

• There were wild swings in the weather this week, going from sunshine to thunderstorms

Used in physics and engineering to describe repeated back and forth movements in a system, often in relation to time.

• The pendulum's oscillations were used to measure time accurately.
• The study focused on the oscillations of the electrical current.

Refers to a rapid back and forth motion, typically in a physical object. Often used in contexts like mechanics, sound, and technology.

• The vibrations from the machinery could be felt throughout the building.
• Musical instruments produce vibrations that we hear as sound.

Indicates irregular changes or variations, often used in contexts like markets, weather, or data.

• The stock market showed significant fluctuations last week.
• Temperature fluctuations can cause health issues.

Describes a series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order, often used in biology, economics, and everyday language.

• The business cycles affect the economy's expansions and recessions.
• The menstrual cycle is an example of a biological cycle.