vacillate
/ˈvæsɪˌleɪt/
VERB
1. To be indecisive or uncertain
To be unable to make a firm decision or choice, often because of uncertainty, hesitation, or conflicting opinions.
1.1. Hesitating when making decisions
To struggle to make a decision, repeatedly hesitating or changing one's mind between different options.
Synonyms
- dither
- hesitate
- waffle
- waver
- be indecisive
- be irresolute
- shilly-shally
- dally
- pussyfoot
- pussyfoot around
- hem and haw
- fence-straddle
- equivocate
Antonyms
Examples
- He tends to vacillate between different opinions during discussions.
- The committee members often vacillate on key decisions, causing delays.
- Some people vacillate between career options before finding their passion.
- It's not uncommon for individuals to vacillate when faced with difficult choices.
Related Words
- uncertainty
- indecision
- irresolution
- deliberation
- pondering
- debating
- considering
- scruple
- procrastinate
1.2. Alternating between conflicting opinions or positions
To repeatedly shift between different opinions, attitudes, beliefs, or courses of action without maintaining a consistent position.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Examples
- He tends to vacillate between different opinions during discussions.
- The market can vacillate based on various economic factors and trends.
Related Words
- vary
- veer
- diverge
- shift
- modify
- changeable
- inconstant
- mercurial
- unsettled
- unpredictable
VERB
2. To sway or move unsteadily
To move back and forth, swing, or fluctuate in an unstable or unsteady manner.
2.1. Physical swaying or oscillation
To move repeatedly from side to side or back and forth, often appearing unstable, shaky, or unbalanced.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Words
2.2. Losing balance or stability
To move or behave in an unsteady manner, as if struggling to maintain balance or a stable position.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Words
- stumble
- flounder
- lurch
- careen
- hobble
- buck
- convulse
- tremble
- unsteady