behaving erratically

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "behaving erratically" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something acting in an unpredictable or inconsistent manner. Example: "The dog has been behaving erratically since the thunderstorm started, running around and barking at nothing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

He has had a reputation locally for having erratic ideas and for behaving erratically.

The New Yorker

"They were behaving erratically, and the water was dirty.

The New York Times

That evening, he began behaving erratically, throwing furniture.

The Guardian

His marriage was in trouble, and he had started behaving erratically.

The New Yorker

Another witness had described him as "behaving erratically" when officers arrive at the scene.

Independent

He suffered from heart disease and other ailments, and was drinking heavily and behaving erratically.

The New Yorker

But later analyses of interceptor contrails showed that its guidance system was behaving erratically.

MIT Technology Review

Relatives told the state police that Chief Blasier had been behaving erratically lately, Major Kelly said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

He reportedly behaved erratically.

The Washington Post

She drank heavily and behaved erratically.

The New Yorker

After the break-up, the woman behaved erratically.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations. "Behaving erratically" often implies instability or unpredictability. Use it when those aspects are relevant to your message.

Common error

Avoid using "behaving erratically" as a catch-all phrase. Instead, pinpoint the specific actions that constitute the erratic behavior to provide a more vivid and accurate portrayal. For example, instead of saying "He was behaving erratically", specify that he was "pacing nervously and speaking incoherently".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "behaving erratically" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used as part of a predicate to describe the manner in which a subject is acting. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Wiki

6%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "behaving erratically" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes unpredictable or inconsistent behavior. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely accepted. Its usage spans various contexts, from news reports to general discussions, with a neutral register. While "behaving erratically" is common, it's essential to provide specific examples when using it in writing to avoid vagueness and enhance clarity. Alternatives like "acting strangely" or "acting unpredictably" can offer nuanced variations depending on the intended message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

demonstrating erratic conduct

A more formal way of saying "behaving erratically", using "conduct" instead of "behaving".

acting unpredictably

Focuses on the lack of predictability in the behavior, similar to "behaving erratically".

acting abnormally

Indicates a deviation from normal behavior, similar in scope to "behaving erratically".

acting strangely

A more general term for unusual behavior. It's less specific than "behaving erratically".

acting irrationally

Focuses on the lack of reason or logic behind the behavior.

acting out of character

Highlights a change in behavior from the person's usual demeanor, implying something is amiss.

losing control

Suggests a loss of self-control, which can manifest as erratic behavior. It's more intense.

acting wildly

Implies unrestrained and uncontrolled actions, often with a sense of excitement or frenzy.

going haywire

A more informal expression suggesting chaotic or uncontrolled behavior.

flipping out

An informal term suggesting a sudden and extreme emotional or behavioral outburst.

FAQs

What does "behaving erratically" mean?

"Behaving erratically" means acting in an unpredictable, inconsistent, or strange manner. It suggests a deviation from normal behavior.

What are some synonyms for "behaving erratically"?

Synonyms include "acting strangely", "acting unpredictably", and "acting abnormally". The best choice depends on the specific context.

How can I use "behaving erratically" in a sentence?

You can say, "The patient started "behaving erratically" after missing several doses of medication" or "The stock market has been "behaving erratically" due to recent economic news."

Is it better to say "behaving erratically" or "demonstrating erratic behavior"?

Both phrases are correct, but "demonstrating erratic behavior" is more formal. "Behaving erratically" is generally preferred in everyday conversation and less formal writing.