erratic
/ɪˈɹætɪk/
Group 18Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Not even or regular in pattern or movement; unpredictable GRE
Example in Context
The CEO's erratic decision-making style left employees uncertain about the company's direction and reluctant to commit to long-term projects.
Synonyms
unpredictableinconsistentunsteady
Etymology
Straying from a regular pattern or course.
- errare (Latin) — to stray
Memory Aid
🏠Sounds like “air attic”
When the AIR in the ATTIC goes all over the place, it’s totally ERRATIC and unpredictable!
Visual Association
🎢A roller coaster taking wild, unpredictable turns, representing erratic movement.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “erratic” mean on the GRE?
erratic (adjective) means “Not even or regular in pattern or movement; unpredictable”. The CEO's erratic decision-making style left employees uncertain about the company's direction and reluctant to commit to long-term projects.
How to remember “erratic” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “erratic” sounds like “air attic”. When the AIR in the ATTIC goes all over the place, it’s totally ERRATIC and unpredictable!
What are synonyms for “erratic”?
Common synonyms: unpredictable, inconsistent, unsteady.