undulate irregularly

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "undulate irregularly" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that moves in a wave-like motion that is not consistent or uniform. Example: "The flag began to undulate irregularly in the strong wind, creating a mesmerizing display of movement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Redolent of fractured letters or numbers, architectural beams and, of course, columns and capitals, each is traversed bottom to top by two abstract lines -- one single, one double -- that undulate or curve regularly or irregularly, but usually visit all the painting's subdivisions, like a cursory circulatory system.

The New York Times

Why does the floor undulate?

Yale University

Porches undulate toward us.

The New York Times - Books

Lazaro Gonzalez works irregularly.

The New York Times

We can undulate our arms.

The New York Times - Arts

He still attends church, irregularly.

The Guardian - Books

Stem: 1, irregularly tomentose.

University of California, Berkeley

"He came on so irregularly.

The Guardian

Seed: many, irregularly angled.

University of California, Berkeley

Seed: irregularly angled, black.

University of California, Berkeley

And "he worked irregularly," she added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing phenomena like wind patterns or fabric movement, "undulate irregularly" can provide a vivid image of chaotic or unpredictable motion. Use it to contrast with more regular or predictable undulations for emphasis.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "undulate irregularly" may sound somewhat verbose in highly formal or technical writing. Consider simpler alternatives like "wave erratically" if clarity and conciseness are paramount.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "undulate irregularly" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which something moves in a wave-like fashion. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Academia

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "undulate irregularly" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe an inconsistent, wave-like motion. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable. It finds applications across various contexts, including news, academia, and science. While generally neutral to formal in tone, simpler alternatives might be preferred for maximum clarity. Effective use involves highlighting chaotic movement in contrast to regular undulations. Common missteps include overuse in formal writing when simpler terms suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wave erratically

Focuses on the unpredictable nature of the waving motion, highlighting the lack of a fixed pattern.

move unevenly in waves

Emphasizes the lack of uniformity in the wave-like movement.

fluctuate haphazardly

Highlights the random and unplanned nature of the undulation.

ripple inconsistently

Focuses on small waves or ripples that lack uniformity in their movement.

oscillate randomly

Stresses the back-and-forth movement with no discernible pattern.

surge unpredictably

Implies a more forceful, wave-like motion that happens without warning.

twist asymmetrically

Emphasizes the uneven and unbalanced nature of the twisting movement, departing slightly from a pure wave.

curve unevenly

Highlights the irregular nature of the curve without focusing as much on the wave aspect.

roll unsteadily

Suggests a wavering, insecure motion, like something rolling but not smoothly.

meander sporadically

Implies a wandering or winding motion that occurs in an inconsistent pattern.

FAQs

How can I describe erratic wave-like motion instead of "undulate irregularly"?

You could use phrases like "wave erratically", "move unevenly in waves", or "fluctuate haphazardly", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "undulate irregularly" in academic writing?

While grammatically correct, in academic writing, consider whether a more concise term might be preferable for clarity. Alternatives could include "oscillate randomly" if referring to a periodic motion, or "fluctuate haphazardly" for less structured movement.

What's the difference between "undulate irregularly" and "undulate regularly"?

"Undulate regularly" describes a wave-like motion that is consistent and predictable, while "undulate irregularly" describes a wave-like motion that is inconsistent and unpredictable. One has a pattern, the other does not.

In what contexts is it most effective to use the phrase "undulate irregularly"?

The phrase "undulate irregularly" is most effective when you want to emphasize the chaotic or unpredictable nature of a wave-like motion. This can be particularly useful in descriptions of natural phenomena or abstract concepts.