Meaning
Fluctuation (noun) refers to a change that happens irregularly, often moving up and down or back and forth. It suggests instability, variation, or inconsistency over time.
Grammar and Usage
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Part of speech: Noun
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Countable/Uncountable: Can be both, but usually used in the plural when talking about repeated changes.
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Typical structures:
- "fluctuation in + noun"
- "fluctuation of + amount/level"
Example: "There are fluctuations in temperature during spring."
Common Phrases
- price fluctuations – irregular changes in price
- fluctuations in demand – changes in how much people want a product
- temperature fluctuations – variations in temperature
- currency fluctuations – changes in the value of money
- economic fluctuations – irregular ups and downs in the economy
Collocations
- verb + fluctuation: cause fluctuations, experience fluctuations, observe fluctuations
- adjective + fluctuation: sharp fluctuations, minor fluctuations, seasonal fluctuations, random fluctuations
- fluctuation + noun: fluctuation range, fluctuation pattern
Examples
- The stock market is experiencing major fluctuations this week.
- Temperature fluctuations in the desert can be extreme between day and night.
- Currency fluctuations affect international trade.
- Her mood showed constant fluctuations throughout the stressful period.
- Seasonal fluctuations in sales are common in the tourism industry.
- The doctor explained that small fluctuations in blood pressure are normal.
- Economic fluctuations can create uncertainty for businesses.
- The device records fluctuations in energy usage every hour.
Synonyms or Related
- variation
- instability
- oscillation
- shift
- swing
Antonym
- stability
- consistency
- steadiness