Vacillation: meaning, definitions and examples

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vacillation

 

[ ˌvæsɪˈleɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

indecision

Vacillation is the inability to make a decision or choice, wavering between different options or opinions. It is often characterized by uncertainty and hesitancy.

Synonyms

hesitation, indecision, indecisiveness

Examples of usage

  • She was criticized for her vacillation in choosing a college.
  • His constant vacillation on important matters is frustrating.
Context #2 | Noun

movement

Vacillation can also refer to a movement back and forth, especially in a trembling or quivering manner.

Synonyms

fluctuation, oscillation, vibration

Examples of usage

  • The vacillation of the pendulum was mesmerizing.
  • The vacillation of the leaves in the wind created a peaceful rhythm.

Translations

Translations of the word "vacillation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 vacilação

🇮🇳 डगमगाना

🇩🇪 Schwanken

🇮🇩 keragu-raguan

🇺🇦 вагання

🇵🇱 wahanie

🇯🇵 ためらい

🇫🇷 vacillation

🇪🇸 vacilación

🇹🇷 tereddüt

🇰🇷 망설임

🇸🇦 تردد

🇨🇿 váhání

🇸🇰 váhanie

🇨🇳 犹豫

🇸🇮 oklevanje

🇮🇸 hik

🇰🇿 тұрақсыздық

🇬🇪 მერყეობა

🇦🇿 tərəddüd

🇲🇽 vacilación

Etymology

The word 'vacillation' originated from the Latin word 'vacillatio', which means 'a swaying, wavering'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century. The concept of vacillation has been explored in various literary works and philosophical discussions, highlighting the human struggle with decision-making and fluctuating movements.

See also: vacillating.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,593, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.