What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tergiversate
Example
The politician tried to tergiversate when asked about his stance on the controversial issue. [tergiversate: verb]
Example
She was known for her tendency to tergiversate when confronted with difficult decisions. [tergiversating: gerund or present participle]
fluctuate
Example
The stock market prices fluctuated wildly throughout the day. [fluctuated: past tense]
Example
Her weight has been fluctuating up and down for months. [fluctuating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fluctuate is a more commonly used word than tergiversate in everyday language. Fluctuate is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tergiversate is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tergiversate and fluctuate?
Tergiversate is a more formal word than fluctuate and may be less commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more likely to be used in formal writing or speech, such as political or legal contexts.
