How Do You Spell VACILLATION?

Pronunciation: [vˌasɪlˈe͡ɪʃən] (IPA)

The word "vacillation" is pronounced as /ˌvæsəˈleɪʃən/. The vowel "a" in the first syllable is pronounced as /æ/ as in "cat". The "c" and "s" combination in the middle of the word is pronounced as /s/. The second "i" is pronounced with a short "i" sound as in "sit". The final syllable "-tion" has a stress on the second last syllable and is pronounced as /ˈleɪʃən/. The spelling of the word can be a bit tricky, but understanding its phonetic transcription can help improve one's pronunciation.

VACILLATION Meaning and Definition

1. Vacillation is a noun that refers to the act of wavering or being indecisive. It conveys the idea of uncertainty or hesitancy in making a choice or decision. This term often implies a repeated or prolonged struggle in reaching a conclusion, as one vacillates back and forth between different options or opinions. It can be used to describe both internal conflicts within an individual and external disputes among groups or societies.

   Vacillation typically involves a lack of firmness or resolve, as one struggles to commit to a particular course of action or belief. It may stem from a fear of making the wrong choice or a desire to please everyone involved. This tendency to vacillate can cause frustration and impede progress, as it often leads to a state of paralysis where no definitive action is taken.

   The concept of vacillation is often associated with feelings of doubt, confusion, and ambivalence. It can be seen as a form of indecisiveness or an inability to make a commitment. Those who vacillate may seek reassurance or additional information in order to make a more informed decision. However, excessive vacillation can also be seen as a sign of weakness or lack of confidence.

   Overall, vacillation describes the state of being torn between options and unable to make a firm decision. It captures the essence of hesitancy, uncertainty, and wavering, highlighting the challenges that arise when individuals or groups struggle to reach a definitive stance on a particular matter.

2. A moving one way and the other; unsteadiness; a fluctuation of mind.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for VACILLATION

• vailation
• faciliation
• vacilations
• vacination
• facilation
• ocillation
• vacinnation
• cacellation
• vaiolation
• acilation
• canillation
• vaxillation
• vacullation
• vaculation
• vezillation
• varcellation
• mamillation
• Vaccellation
• abillation
• vascilation
• sacillation

Etymology of VACILLATION

The word "vacillation" originated from the Latin verb "vacillare", which means "to sway" or "to waver". It is derived from the noun "vacuus", meaning "empty" or "vacant". Over time, the term "vacillation" acquired the figurative sense of indecision or uncertainty, reflecting the concept of wavering or swaying between different options.

Similar spelling words for VACILLATION

• vacillating,
• vacillate,
• vacuolation,
• vacillator,
• vasculitis.

Plural form of VACILLATION is VACILLATIONS