Definitions
- Describing a person who changes their mind or opinion frequently and unpredictably. - Referring to something that is unstable, inconsistent, or unreliable. - Talking about a situation or circumstance that is subject to sudden and unexpected changes.
- Describing a person who is unpredictable, volatile, or prone to sudden mood swings. - Referring to something that is changeable, variable, or fluctuating. - Talking about a situation or circumstance that is characterized by rapid and unexpected changes.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe something that is subject to change.
- 2Both words can refer to people, situations, or circumstances.
- 3Both words have negative connotations.
- 4Both words suggest a lack of stability or predictability.
What is the difference?
- 1Connotation: Fickle suggests a superficial or flighty nature, while mercurial suggests a more intense and volatile personality.
- 2Usage: Fickle is more commonly used to describe people, while mercurial is more commonly used to describe situations or circumstances.
- 3Frequency: Fickle is a more common word than mercurial in everyday language.
Remember this!
Fickle and mercurial are synonyms that describe something that is subject to change or instability. However, the difference between the two words lies in their origin, etymology, connotation, usage, and frequency. Fickle implies a lack of loyalty or commitment, while mercurial implies a lack of emotional stability or consistency. Fickle is more commonly used to describe people, while mercurial is more commonly used to describe situations or circumstances.
