swaying between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'swaying between' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing a person or situation that is uncertain, undecided, or wavering about which option to choose. For example: John was swaying between whether to take the job offer in the city or to stay in his hometown.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

"I'm swaying between Lib Dem and Conservative.

Independent

As of this writing, it is still there, swaying between the trees.

The New Yorker

Its creative gestations are largely at Martsch's whim, swaying between crisp, poppy hooks and languid guitar solos.

The New Yorker

The picture is unthinkable without her presence — swaying between the jubilant and the fretful, all wide eyes and corrugated brow.

The New Yorker

The book is an unmitigated parade of racial prejudice, with bug-eyed natives swaying between ignorance and laziness.

The New Yorker

His voice is never static, either, swaying between estuary mumbles and a thespian baritone, so every few minutes it feels a bit like having lunch with someone new.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The audience constantly swayed between laughter and tears, anger and sympathy, pity and disgust.

The Guardian

Ever since I said yes, I've swayed between liking and disliking the process like a ship in a storm.

The Guardian - Music

Arranging the funeral was very difficult; not knowing his wishes and her dementia meant that she would sway between decisions.

The Guardian

Gabriel Kahane, a Brooklynite singer-composer who sways between pop and classical worlds, has taken the concept of the concept album to rarefied heights.

The New Yorker

Ojai could make better use of local talent: Southern California has its own distinctive community of composers and allied artists, who sway between uproarious and meditative modes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "swaying between" to vividly describe a state of indecision or fluctuation, especially when the subject is influenced by opposing forces or considerations.

Common error

Avoid using "swaying between" to describe the literal movement of physical objects unless the intention is to emphasize a fluctuating state. For example, instead of saying "The building was swaying between stability and collapse", consider using "The building was swaying, nearing collapse."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "swaying between" functions as a conjunctive phrase, connecting two contrasting options, states, or ideas. It indicates a state of indecision, fluctuation, or oscillation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "swaying between" effectively conveys a state of indecision or fluctuation, as Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage. Predominantly found in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts, this conjunctive phrase serves to express uncertainty or oscillation between two options. While generally neutral in register, it's crucial to avoid using it with concrete objects unless emphasizing a fluctuating state. Alternatives like ""wavering between"" or ""fluctuating between"" offer nuanced variations for similar meanings. Remember, this expression is versatile but requires mindful application to maintain clarity and precision in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wavering between

This alternative emphasizes the instability and hesitation in choosing between options, similar to "swaying between" but with a stronger sense of doubt.

fluctuating between

This option highlights the constant change and oscillation between two states, similar to "swaying between", focusing on the dynamic nature of the situation.

oscillating between

Similar to fluctuating, this term suggests a rhythmic movement back and forth between two points, emphasizing the periodic nature of the change.

vacillating between

This phrase suggests indecisiveness and a lack of resolution in choosing between options, portraying a sense of uncertainty.

alternating between

This option highlights the sequential switching between two states or options, suggesting a regular pattern of change.

teetering between

This alternative invokes an image of precarious balance, suggesting a potential tipping point between two options.

shuffling between

Suggests a less structured and more casual movement between two options, lacking the formality of "swaying between".

seesawing between

Evokes a strong visual image of movement up and down, back and forth, like children playing. Highlights the extremes.

hedging between

This implies a deliberate attempt to avoid committing to one side or the other, often for strategic reasons.

bordering on

This implies a state that is close to an extreme, but it is more commonly used to describe the fine line between mental/emotional states.

FAQs

How can I use "swaying between" in a sentence?

You can use "swaying between" to describe someone or something that is undecided or fluctuating between two options or states. For example, "She was "swaying between" accepting the job offer and continuing her studies".

What are some alternatives to "swaying between"?

Alternatives include "wavering between", "fluctuating between", or "oscillating between", each conveying a slightly different nuance of indecision or fluctuation.

Is it correct to use "swaying between" to describe physical objects?

While grammatically correct, it is more common to use "swaying between" to describe abstract concepts or decisions. For physical objects, consider alternatives that focus on the physical movement, such as "moving back and forth" or "rocking between".

What's the difference between "swaying between" and "wavering between"?

"Swaying between" suggests a gentle, rhythmic movement, while ""wavering between"" implies a more hesitant and uncertain indecision.