What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undulate
Example
The wheat fields undulated in the breeze. [undulated: verb]
Example
The undulating hills made for a scenic drive. [undulating: adjective]
fluctuate
Example
The price of oil fluctuated throughout the year. [fluctuated: verb]
Example
Her mood tends to fluctuate depending on the weather. [fluctuate: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fluctuate is more commonly used than undulate in everyday language, especially in business, finance, and science contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between undulate and fluctuate?
Fluctuate is more formal than undulate, which is more poetic and literary in style.
