What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vagary
Example
The stock market is known for its vagaries, making it difficult to predict. [vagaries: noun]
Example
She was known for her vagaries, sometimes changing her mind without warning. [vagaries: noun]
whim
Example
On a whim, she decided to take a road trip across the country. [whim: noun]
Example
He had a whimsical idea to paint his car in bright colors. [whimsical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whim is more commonly used than vagary in everyday language. Whim is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while vagary is less common and more formal, often used in more specific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vagary and whim?
Vagary is typically associated with a more formal tone, while whim is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.