fluttering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fluttering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that moves lightly and quickly, often in a way that suggests a gentle or delicate motion. Example: "The leaves were fluttering in the breeze, creating a soothing sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But he probably saw it at the movies: Cash fluttering down like confetti has been a favorite film trope from It's a Mad Mad Mad Mad World to Bull Durham.

The Guardian - Opinion

I could feel deft fingers fluttering around me, fastening straps and hoisting sagging tights.

The Guardian

Today, the thick walls feature nothing more interesting than a washing line of fluttering white police underwear, but 23 years ago it was where the London-educated lawyer Maurice Bishop was executed.

The Guardian - Travel

Look no further for Lolita complexes, simmering marital contempt and that slow-motion shot of rose petals fluttering from Mena Suvari's ceiling-height suspended naked body.

The Guardian - Film

They know that Greece really has only two choices: surrender or leave the euro, and since it has said it wants to stay inside the single currency, they expect the white flag to be fluttering any time soon.

The Guardian - Business

It might have been when I drifted off by the pool to the euphonious sound of olive leaves fluttering in the breeze; or it might have been as I ambled through the resort's beautiful gardens – full of palms, cacti, orange, citrus trees and many roses – to try out the spa.

The Guardian - Travel

With the maple leaves already fluttering to the ground, and the snow spreading down the mountainsides, there will be no more fighting before April.

The Economist

So why is it still fluttering?Psychological history takes part of the blame.

The Economist

But as he talked, you couldn't help noticing his hands: the long, thin fingers fluttering, locking, unlocking, gesticulating, as if he could flip cards and slip knots in his sleep.The vanishing bandHis first trick was learned, at five, from a column in the Times of India.

The Economist

If football coaches such as the legendary Lou Holtz (formerly of Arkansas and Notre Dame fame, now at the University of South Carolina) announce that they cannot recruit good black athletes because of the stigma of the flag, that banner could soon come fluttering down.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Not since Diana have we seen eyelash-fluttering on such a ridiculous scale.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fluttering" to vividly describe light, quick movements, such as leaves in the wind or a bird's wings, to add a sense of delicacy and motion to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "fluttering" interchangeably with words like "flapping" or "waving" when a more delicate or gentle motion is intended. "Fluttering" implies a lighter, less forceful movement.

Linguistic Context

The term "fluttering" primarily functions as a verb (present participle), often used to describe a dynamic state of light and rapid motion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the term is correct and commonly used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fluttering" is a grammatically sound and versatile term, as validated by Ludwig AI. It is commonly used to describe light, rapid movements and can also be employed metaphorically to convey emotional or physical sensations. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, the phrase maintains a neutral register, making it appropriate for a wide range of writing styles. When using "fluttering", ensure its delicate connotation aligns with the intended meaning, distinguishing it from stronger, more forceful verbs like "flapping". Remember to choose "fluttering" when you wish to evoke gentle motion and subtle movement in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flapping

Focuses on a broader, sometimes heavier, movement involving wings or similar structures.

quivering

Implies a trembling or shaking motion, often due to fear or excitement.

wavering

Suggests an unsteady or fluctuating movement, often in the context of doubt or instability.

flickering

Relates to an intermittent or unsteady light or movement.

trembling

Indicates involuntary shaking, often associated with cold, fear, or illness.

palpitating

Specifically refers to a rapid or irregular heartbeat, often due to anxiety or exertion.

oscillating

Describes a regular back-and-forth movement, often in a mechanical or scientific context.

rippling

Refers to a gentle wave-like motion, typically seen on the surface of water or fabric.

agitating

Implies a forceful stirring or disturbance, often causing unease or excitement.

undulating

Describes a smooth, wave-like motion, often over a long distance.

FAQs

How can I use "fluttering" in a sentence?

You can use "fluttering" to describe objects or creatures making quick, light movements. For example, "Butterflies were fluttering around the garden" or "Flags were fluttering in the breeze."

What's the difference between "fluttering" and "flapping"?

"Fluttering" suggests a lighter, more delicate movement, while "flapping" implies a more forceful and often louder motion. A bird's wings might be described as "flapping" in flight, but a ribbon might be described as "fluttering" in the wind.

What can I say instead of "fluttering"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "quivering", "wavering", or "flickering" to convey similar meanings.

Is it correct to say "fluttering" to describe a feeling?

Yes, "fluttering" can be used metaphorically to describe a light, uneasy feeling, such as "I felt a fluttering in my stomach before the performance."