schwanken
fluctuate · waver · sway
Sich hin und her bewegen oder unsicher sein, weil man keine feste Entscheidung treffen kann.
The German word "schwanken" is a verb meaning "to sway," "to fluctuate," or "to waver." It describes physical movement back and forth or figurative instability, such as fluctuating opinions or values.
- The root "wanken" means "to waver" or "to totter."
- The prefix "sch-" accentuates the movement or action but is not a separate word.
Similar words:
- wanken – to stagger or waver (more about instability)
- zittern – to tremble or shake (more about small, rapid shaking)
- fluktuieren – to fluctuate (used mostly in technical or economic contexts)
Differences:
- Schwanken includes both physical swaying and abstract fluctuation.
- Wanken focuses more on losing balance or certainty.
- Zittern emphasizes small trembling movements.
- Fluktuieren is more specialized for measurable or regular variations.
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Examples
Die Preise schwanken je nach Saison.verb
The prices fluctuate depending on the season.
Sein Vertrauen schwankt mit der Zeit.verb
His trust wavers over time.
Die Schiffe schwankten stark während des Sturms.verb
The ships swayed heavily during the storm.
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