Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˌvækɪˈleɪʃən/
KK: /vækəˈleɪʃən/
Definition
The act of being indecisive or wavering between different choices or opinions.
Example
Her vacillation on the decision made it difficult for the team to move forward.
Conversation

I've been feeling a lot of vacillation about my career choices lately.

I can understand that; it’s a big decision to make.

Yeah, every time I think I've made up my mind, I start doubting again.

It happens to everyone, just take your time to figure it out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
hesitation
wavering
uncertainty
Antonyms
decisiveness
certainty
resolution
Root Explanation
Vacillation → It is formed from "vacillare" (meaning to sway or waver) and the suffix "-tion" (indicating the action or process). The word "vacillation" refers to the action of swaying back and forth, especially in making decisions.
Memory Tip
Think of someone 'swaying' or 'wavering' in their choices — that's what vacillation means.
Visually Confused Words
vallation
vacation
illation
varicellation
unvacillating
vexillation
variolation
vacuolation