Vacillating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is unable to decide between different opinions or actions. It often suggests weakness or indecision.

• She stood there vacillating between going to the party or staying home

Used when someone pauses before saying or doing something, often due to uncertainty or nervousness.

• She didn't hesitate to help her friend when he was in trouble

Used when showing uncertainty or lack of strength in making a decision or choice. It can also describe a physical motion of unsteadiness.

• He seemed to waver, unsure of what to say next

Used when describing something that regularly changes in amount, level, or quality, such as prices or emotions.

• The stock market tends to fluctuate daily

Used when someone avoids giving a clear or direct answer, often to mislead or deceive. It has a negative connotation.

• He continued to equivocate when asked about his involvement in the project

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.

• She was vacillating between going to the party and staying home to study.
• His vacillating stance on the issue frustrated his colleagues.

Commonly refers to something moving back and forth, typically in reference to physical motion or changes in mood. It’s often used in a more casual or everyday context than 'oscillate'.

• The child loved to swing on the playground.
• Public opinion can swing dramatically before elections.

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.

• The stock market tends to fluctuate depending on economic news.
• Her weight tends to fluctuate throughout the year.

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.

• The fan oscillates to cool the entire room.
• His mood oscillates between happiness and sadness.

Mostly used to describe someone showing uncertainty or declining in strength or clarity. It often conveys hesitation or lack of confidence.

• She wavered for a moment before deciding to accept the job offer.
• His voice wavered as he spoke about the emotional topic.