fluctuations

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "fluctuations" is correct and can be used in written English.
This term is used to refer to a change or variation in a particular value or trait. For example, "The market has seen significant fluctuations in prices over the last year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is, CO2 drives a relatively steady warming (on these time scales), but the actual rate of warming experienced fluctuates about that 'steady' rate because of natural fluctuations in ocean circulation.

The Guardian

Sturgeon said the UK government could be blamed for the fluctuations in sterling because it had refused to have "sensible discussions" about a formal deal to share the pound if there was a yes vote.

The Guardian

They lived or died by the quotidian fluctuations of form and luck, the natural run of good days and bad.

The Guardian - Sport

At its core would be a 21st-century project to make the nation's buildings truly energy efficient, as well as a revolution in renewable energies, to secure our energy supplies into the future, protect ourselves against oil price fluctuations, re-invigorate our manufacturing sector and seriously address climate change.

The Guardian - Opinion

Even if there were some unpredictable fluctuations in the demand for money, the resulting disturbances to nominal incomes would be much less, he believed, than would result from attempts at discretionary management by central banks.

The Guardian

Many believed rental income would help with the costs of the property, but they didn't take into consideration currency fluctuations or the tough economic climate.

The Guardian - Money

So, short-term fluctuations in clouds have large impacts on the net rate of heat gain by the Earth.

The Guardian

The system can remotely access and adjust use, taking automatic advantage of the National Grid's price fluctuations.

The Guardian

When selling, price fluctuations at market can turn even a successful harvest into a tiny profit.

The Guardian

The change could mean some special schools losing a significant amount of funding because of sudden fluctuations in demand for places, raising the possibility of staff lay-offs, says the NAHT.

The Guardian

"The fluctuations in the currency market affect us directly," said Ehsan, who sells mobile phones there.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fluctuations" to describe changes that vary around a central value or trend. If the changes are consistently in one direction, consider using "trends" or "shifts" instead.

Common error

Avoid using "fluctuations" when simpler terms like "changes" or "variations" suffice. Reserve it for situations where the back-and-forth nature of the changes is important.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "fluctuations" is as a plural noun. It typically acts as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to instances of varying or changing. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fluctuations" correctly refers to variations or changes, often irregular, in something over time. Ludwig AI confirms that the term is grammatically sound and widely used, especially in news, business, and scientific contexts. When using "fluctuations", it's best to specify the subject and be aware of alternatives like ""variations"" or "oscillations" for specific nuances. Avoid overuse in simple contexts where "changes" would suffice. By understanding these nuances, you can use "fluctuations" effectively and avoid common errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

variations

This term emphasizes the degree or extent of change from a standard or norm.

oscillations

This highlights a regular back-and-forth movement or variation between two extremes.

variances

This term focuses on the state or fact of differing or being variable.

shifts

Emphasizes a change in position, direction, or tendency over time.

swings

This suggests a wide or noticeable change, often between extremes.

drifts

Indicates a gradual deviation or movement away from an original position or condition.

deviations

Highlights the act of departing from an established course or standard.

inconsistencies

Highlights a lack of uniformity or regularity.

irregularities

Focuses on the state of not being regular or even.

instabilities

This term emphasizes a lack of stability or firmness.

FAQs

How can I use "fluctuations" in a sentence?

You can use "fluctuations" to describe variations in a particular value. For example, "The company's profits experienced significant "variations" this quarter."

What words can I use instead of "fluctuations"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like ""variations"", "oscillations", or "shifts".

What's the difference between "fluctuations" and "changes"?

"Fluctuations" typically refer to irregular variations or oscillations, while "changes" can encompass any alteration, whether regular or irregular. The term "changes" is broader.

In what contexts is it best to use the term "fluctuations"?

The term "fluctuations" is best suited when you are describing back-and-forth movements or variations around a central point, such as "market oscillations" or "temperature variations".