Definition

1. Verb:
   • To be unable to decide between different opinions or actions; to waver in mind or feeling: "vacillate" describes the state of being indecisive, hesitating between choices.
   • To sway unsteadily; to waver physically: In a more literal sense, "vacillate" can describe a back-and-forth or wavering movement.

Usage

• The primary use of "vacillate" is to describe indecision or wavering between options. It is often used in contexts involving choices, opinions, or emotions.
• The less common, more literal use describes a physical swaying or fluctuating motion.

Examples

• Verb (Indecision):
  • She vacillated for weeks before choosing which university to attend.
  • The committee vacillated between the two proposals, unable to reach a consensus.
• Verb (Physical Movement):
  • The needle on the old scale vacillated before settling on a number.
  • His resolve never vacillated, even in the face of great pressure. (Here, it is used metaphorically for unwavering steadiness).

Advanced Usage

• "to vacillate between A and B": This is the most common construction, highlighting the two points between which one hesitates.
  • He vacillates between optimism and despair about the project's future.
• Used to describe public opinion or markets that are unstable or fluctuating.
  • Stock prices vacillated throughout the trading session.

Variants and Related Words

• Vacillation (n): The state or an instance of being unable to decide or of wavering.
  • Her constant vacillation made it difficult to make plans.
• Vacillating (adj): Characterized by indecision.
  • He was criticized for his vacillating leadership during the crisis.

Synonyms

• Hesitate: To pause before deciding or acting.
• Waver: To fluctuate between choices or to become unsteady.
• Oscillate: To swing or move back and forth; often used interchangeably with "vacillate" for indecision.
• Falter: To lose strength or momentum; to hesitate in speech or action.
• Dither: To be nervously indecisive (more informal).

Antonyms

• Decide: To reach a conclusion.
• Resolve: To settle or find a solution to; to be firmly determined.
• Persist: To continue steadfastly.

Idioms and Phrases

• While there is no specific idiom with "vacillate," the concept is central to phrases like:
  • "To be of two minds": To be unable to decide between two options.
  • "To blow hot and cold": To constantly change one's opinion or feelings about something.

Verb

1. move or sway in a rising and falling or wavelike pattern
   • the line on the monitor vacillated
2. be undecided about something; waver between conflicting positions or courses of action
   • He oscillates between accepting the new position and retirement