Vacillated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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vacillated
[หvรฆsษชหleษชtษชd ]
Definition
uncertainty, decision
To vacillate is to waver between different opinions, actions, or decisions. It often implies a lack of resolve or firmness in oneโs thoughts or choices. This term can be applied to situations where an individual is unsure of which option to choose or when they are oscillating between two or more ideas. It can also denote a fluctuation in feelings or viewpoints. In many cases, vacillating may lead to missed opportunities as time passes while one deliberates.
Synonyms
dither, fluctuate, hesitate, oscillate, waver.
Examples of usage
- She vacillated between accepting the job offer and staying in her current role.
- The committee vacillated on which proposal to accept, causing delays in the project.
- He vacillated between excitement and fear about moving to a new city.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often vacillate when faced with difficult decisions due to fear of making the wrong choice.
- Indecision can lead to anxiety and stress, as the pressure to make the right decision builds up.
Literature
- The concept of vacillation is a common theme in literature, illustrating characters' internal struggles.
- Famous works, such as Shakespeareโs plays, often depict heroes who vacillate over moral dilemmas.
Everyday Life
- Many people vacillate when trying to pick a restaurant, weighing the menus against their cravings.
- In relationships, individuals may vacillate between feelings of love and doubt, showcasing emotional conflict.
Pop Culture
- Characters in sitcoms frequently vacillate over trivial decisions, adding humor to their conflicts.
- Reality shows often highlight contestants vacillating between alliances, creating tension and drama.
Origin of 'vacillated'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'vacillare', meaning 'to sway or waver'.
- It was first used in English in the 17th century, reflecting uncertainty in choices or beliefs.
The term 'vacillate' finds its origins in the Latin word 'vacillare', which means 'to sway to and fro' or 'to waver'. The roots can be traced back to the 16th century, where the verb was adopted into English to describe the act of indecisiveness and the oscillation of thoughts. The usage of 'vacillate' in English literature has maintained its connection to the idea of wavering between choices or situations. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass a broader range of contexts, including emotional states and mental quandaries. Despite its somewhat formal tone, 'vacillate' is frequently utilized in both written and spoken discourse to articulate the feeling of uncertainty and the process of deliberation without resolution.