fluctuate
To rise and fall irregularly in number or amount.
Examples
In a meeting
“Revenue tends to fluctuate seasonally, so we plan for that in our forecasts.”
Over coffee
“My weight fluctuates a few pounds depending on the week.”
Why this word
change
fluctuate indicates repeated irregular variations up and down, while change is general and one-directional
vary
fluctuate emphasizes unpredictable oscillation, while vary can indicate controlled or planned differences
shift
fluctuate implies continuous back-and-forth movement, while shift suggests a single movement from one state to another
Usage tip
Implies irregular, somewhat unpredictable movement. Good for prices, moods, temperatures, and demand.
Etymology
Latin fluctuare — fluctus (wave, flow), from fluere (to flow)
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Related words
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
deteriorate
To become progressively worse over time.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement
revert
To return to a previous state or practice
proliferate
To increase rapidly in number; multiply