vacillates
/ˈvæsɪˌleɪts/
VERB
1. To sway or move unsteadily
To move repeatedly from one side to another or back and forth in an unsteady, wavering, or oscillating manner.
1.1. Physical swaying and oscillation
To move repeatedly from side to side or back and forth, without maintaining a steady position.
Synonyms
- oscillates
- sways
- wobbles
- wabbles
- teeters
- staggers
- rocks
- swings
- reels
- totters
- undulates
- vibrates
Antonyms
- remains
- stays
- holds
Related Words
VERB
2. To swing indecisively between choices or opinions
To repeatedly change between different courses of action, opinions, or positions because of uncertainty or indecision.
2.1. Hesitating when making decisions
To struggle to make a firm decision, repeatedly hesitating or delaying a choice because of uncertainty or conflicting considerations.
Synonyms
Antonyms
- decides
- persists
- continues
Examples
- She vacillates between different workout routines to keep things interesting.
- His opinion on the matter frequently vacillates depending on new information.
Related Words
- ponders
- considers
- deliberates
- debates
- scruples
- procrastinates
- pauses
- waits
- hangs back
- haws
- hem and haw
2.2. Alternating between opinions or positions
To repeatedly shift between different opinions, attitudes, preferences, or courses of action instead of maintaining a consistent position.
Synonyms
- alternates
- changes
- fluctuates
- oscillates
- wavers
- swings
- seesaws
- yo-yos
- runs hot and cold
- backs down
Antonyms
- decides
- persists
- remains
- stays
- continues
Examples
- The weather in spring often vacillates between warm and cool temperatures.
- The stock market vacillates based on economic indicators and investor sentiment.
- The cat vacillates between playful antics and moments of quiet observation.