Vacillating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
vacillating
[หvรฆs.ษช.leษชtษชล ]
Definitions
indecision
To vacillate means to waver in mind or opinion; to be indecisive or irresolute. It is the act of hesitating between different opinions or actions.
Synonyms
equivocate, fluctuate, hesitate, waver.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vacillating |
Used when someone is unable to decide between different opinions or actions. It often suggests weakness or indecision.
|
| hesitate |
Used when someone pauses before saying or doing something, often due to uncertainty or nervousness.
|
| waver |
Used when showing uncertainty or lack of strength in making a decision or choice. It can also describe a physical motion of unsteadiness.
|
| fluctuate |
Used when describing something that regularly changes in amount, level, or quality, such as prices or emotions.
|
| equivocate |
Used when someone avoids giving a clear or direct answer, often to mislead or deceive. It has a negative connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- She vacillated between staying at her current job or pursuing a new career opportunity.
- The politician vacillated on his stance regarding the controversial issue.
swaying
To vacillate also means to sway unsteadily from one side to the other; to oscillate or fluctuate.
Synonyms
fluctuate, oscillate, swing, waver.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| vacillating |
Usually used to describe someone who is unable to make a decision or is changing their opinion frequently. It often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying indecisiveness.
|
| swing |
Commonly refers to something moving back and forth, typically in reference to physical motion or changes in mood. Itโs often used in a more casual or everyday context than 'oscillate'.
|
| fluctuate |
This word is often used in the context of numbers, levels, or values that rise and fall irregularly. It's common in discussions about finance, statistics, and weather.
|
| oscillate |
Typically used to describe something that moves back and forth at a regular pace, often in a physical or mechanical context. It can also refer to the regular variation of opinions or emotions.
|
| waver |
Mostly used to describe someone showing uncertainty or declining in strength or clarity. It often conveys hesitation or lack of confidence.
|
Examples of usage
- The pendulum vacillated back and forth.
- The branches vacillated in the strong wind.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Studies show that indecision can stem from anxiety, leading to difficulty in making choices.
- Cognitive dissonance occurs when a person struggles between conflicting beliefs, contributing to vacillation.
- Research indicates that some people are naturally more indecisive, often analyzing details excessively before committing to a choice.
Pop Culture
- The character Bella Swan in the 'Twilight' series is often seen as vacillating between her love for Edward and Jacob.
- In music, many songs address themes of indecision and uncertainty, often reflecting the vacillating experiences of love and life.
- Reality shows frequently feature contestants who vacillate in their decisions, creating dramatic moments.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's 'Hamlet', the protagonist's indecision drives the plot, embodying vacillation in his thoughts about avenging his father.
- Modern novels often depict protagonists who face critical choices, symbolizing the human struggle with indecisiveness.
- Classic literature often uses characters' vacillation to explore moral dilemmas and the complexities of human nature.
Science
- In physics, oscillation refers to the movement between two points, similar to how humans might vacillate between choices.
- Decision-making research shows that individuals with a high degree of information often tend to vacillate more due to overthinking.
- Neuroscience studies reveal that different brain regions are activated when people hesitate or vacillate in their choices.
Origin of 'vacillating'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'vacillare', meaning to sway unsteadily or to waver.
- It entered the English language in the early 19th century, maintaining its meaning related to indecision.
- Similar words include 'oscillate' which also suggests moving back and forth.
The word 'vacillate' comes from the Latin word 'vacillare', which means 'to sway to and fro'. It first appeared in English in the early 16th century. The concept of vacillation has been explored in various philosophical and psychological contexts, highlighting the human tendency to struggle with decision-making and commitment.
See also: vacillation.