What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vacillant
Example
He was vacillant in his decision-making, often changing his mind at the last minute. [vacillant: adjective]
Example
Her vacillant attitude towards the project caused delays and confusion. [vacillant: noun]
hesitant
Example
She was hesitant to speak up in the meeting, fearing she might say the wrong thing. [hesitant: adjective]
Example
His hesitant approach to the task caused him to miss the deadline. [hesitant: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hesitant is more commonly used than vacillant in everyday language. Hesitant is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while vacillant is less common and more formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vacillant and hesitant?
Vacillant is more formal than hesitant. While hesitant can be used in both formal and informal contexts, vacillant is typically reserved for more formal situations.