What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oscillative
Example
The pendulum's oscillative motion was mesmerizing to watch. [oscillative: adjective]
Example
The sound waves produced by the guitar were oscillative in nature. [oscillative: adjective]
oscillating
Example
The fan was oscillating back and forth, providing a cool breeze. [oscillating: verb]
Example
The stock market has been oscillating between gains and losses for the past week. [oscillating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oscillating is more commonly used than oscillative in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between oscillative and oscillating?
Oscillative is more formal than oscillating and is often used in technical or scientific contexts.