What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scrupled
Example
She scrupled at the idea of cheating on the exam. [scrupled: verb]
Example
He always scrupled about the impact of his actions on others. [scrupled: past tense]
vacillated
Example
She vacillated between two job offers before finally making a decision. [vacillated: verb]
Example
He vacillated on his political beliefs throughout his life. [vacillated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vacillated is more commonly used than scrupled in everyday language. Vacillated is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while scrupled is less common and refers to a specific type of hesitation related to moral or ethical concerns.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scrupled and vacillated?
Both scrupled and vacillated are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts. However, scrupled may be perceived as more formal due to its association with moral or ethical considerations.
