verb

chanceler

stagger

The verb chanceler means to stagger, sway, or waver. It describes a lack of stability, either physical or metaphorical.

Physical meaning: To sway unsteadily from side to side, often as if about to fall. This can be due to intoxication, exhaustion, illness, or a physical blow. (e.g., "Il chancela sous le coup.")
Metaphorical meaning: To waver or lose confidence in a resolution, belief, or position. It refers to a moment of doubt or instability regarding one's conviction or a state of affairs. (e.g., "Sa détermination a fini par chanceler.")

Grammar: It is a regular verb of the first conjugation (-er). However, note the spelling change: in the present tense, the 'l' doubles before a silent 'e' (e.g., je chancelle, ils chancellent).
Origin: The word comes from the Old French chanceler, derived from the Vulgar Latin cancelli, meaning "lattice" or "bars." The connection suggests the movement of someone walking awkwardly, as if they were hitting against barriers or moving through a grid-like structure.

Synonyms:
- Vaciller
- Tituber
- Osciller
- Fléchir
- Déséquilibrer
Antonyms:
- Se stabiliser
- S'affermir
- Se maintenir

Make “chanceler” part of your vocabulary.

Build your French vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Je chancelle quand je suis fatigué.verb

I stagger when I am tired.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).