What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
erratic
Example
The stock market has been behaving erratically lately. [erratically: adverb]
Example
His erratic behavior made it difficult to work with him. [erratic: adjective]
irregular
Example
Her heartbeat was irregular and needed medical attention. [irregular: adjective]
Example
He has an irregular work schedule that changes every week. [irregular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Irregular is more commonly used than erratic in everyday language. Irregular is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while erratic is less common and refers to a specific type of deviation from the norm.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between erratic and irregular?
Both erratic and irregular can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but irregular is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
