vacillate
/ˈvæ.sə.leɪt/
Group 4Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To alternate or waver between different opinions or actions; to be indecisive GRE
Example in Context
The committee vacillated between the two proposals for weeks, unable to build consensus for either approach.
Synonyms
waverhesitatefluctuate
Etymology
Refers to wavering or being indecisive between options.
- vacillare (Latin) — to sway
Memory Aid
⏳Sounds like “vassal late”
Imagine a VASSAL who is always LATE because he can't decide which way to go — he VACILLATES!
Visual Association
⚖️A person standing at a crossroads, nervously switching back and forth between two paths, unable to choose.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “vacillate” mean on the GRE?
vacillate (verb) means “To alternate or waver between different opinions or actions; to be indecisive”. The committee vacillated between the two proposals for weeks, unable to build consensus for either approach.
How to remember “vacillate” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “vacillate” sounds like “vassal late”. Imagine a VASSAL who is always LATE because he can't decide which way to go — he VACILLATES!
What are synonyms for “vacillate”?
Common synonyms: waver, hesitate, fluctuate.