What is the opposite of “flail”?

What is the antonym of “flail”?

The antonyms of flail are steady and still. The antonyms steady and still convey a sense of stability, calmness, and control. They imply the absence of sudden or erratic movements.

Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)

Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!

steady

Firmly fixed in place; not subject to sudden or erratic movements.

Example

He kept a steady hand while performing the surgery.

still

Not moving or making a sound; free from disturbance or agitation.

Example

The lake was still as a mirror, reflecting the mountains in the distance.

How are these antonyms different from each other?

• 1. Steady implies a sense of firmness, stability, and control, whereas flail conveys sudden or erratic movements.
• 2. Still implies a sense of calmness, quietness, and lack of movement, whereas flail conveys a sense of agitation and restlessness.

Good things to know

• 1. Physical Actions: Use flail to describe sudden or uncontrolled movements, and steady to describe controlled and stable movements.
• 2. Emotions: Use still to describe a calm and peaceful state of mind, and flail to describe a restless or agitated state of mind.
• 3. Nature: Use still to describe a quiet and undisturbed natural environment, and flail to describe a turbulent or stormy natural environment.

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Remember this!

The antonyms have distinct nuances: Steady conveys stability and control, and still conveys calmness and lack of movement. Use these words to describe physical actions, emotions, and nature to convey the intended meaning effectively.