What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ruer
Example
I rue the day I decided to quit my job. [rued: past tense]
Example
She rued her decision to break up with him. [ruing: present participle]
waver
Example
He wavered between two options before finally making a decision. [wavered: past tense]
Example
She couldn't help but waver in her commitment to the project. [wavering: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Waver is more commonly used than rue in everyday language. Waver is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while rue is less common and often used in more formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ruer and waver?
Rue is generally considered a more formal word than waver. It is often used in literature or formal writing, while waver can be used in both formal and informal contexts.