volatile
Liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
Examples
In a meeting
“The market is too volatile right now to make long-term commitments.”
Over coffee
“The weather has been volatile all week — sunshine one hour, storms the next.”
Why this word
unstable
volatile emphasizes rapid and unpredictable changes or fluctuations, while unstable broadly lacks steadiness
unpredictable
volatile specifically indicates tendency toward sudden dramatic changes, while unpredictable means difficult to forecast
changeable
volatile stresses explosive or extreme variability, while changeable simply means subject to change
Usage tip
Implies instability and risk. Common with markets, situations, and personalities. Carries a warning tone.
Etymology
Latin volatilis — volare (to fly), literally 'able to fly away' — implying quick disappearance
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Related words
mitigate
To make something less severe, serious, or painful.
revamp
To give new and improved form, structure, or appearance to something.
deteriorate
To become progressively worse over time.
undermine
To gradually weaken or damage something, often secretly or indirectly.
pivot
Change direction or strategy while maintaining a central focus
backtrack
To reverse a previous decision or statement