What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alternating
Example
The traffic lights were alternating between red and green. [alternating: verb]
Example
The alternating current flows in two directions. [alternating: adjective]
oscillating
Example
The fan was oscillating from side to side. [oscillating: verb]
Example
The stock market has been oscillating wildly this week. [oscillating: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alternating is more commonly used than oscillating in everyday language. Alternating is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oscillating is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alternating and oscillating?
Both alternating and oscillating are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
