fickle
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “fickle” mean?
adjective.changing frequently, especially as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection.
SAT Usage
this term often appears in contexts related to relationships, emotions, or societal trends, highlighting the instability and unpredictability of human behavior. It emphasizes a lack of commitment or consistency, which distinguishes it from similar words like "capricious," which suggests impulsive changes without the emotional connotation of loyalty or affection.
Common Confusions
Fickle implies a lack of loyalty or commitment in changing affections, while capricious usually suggests impulsive or whimsical changes without the emotional ties associated with relationships.
Do not choose fickle if the context emphasizes consistency or steadfastness rather than changing frequently, especially as regards one's loyalties, interests, or affection.
Example Sentences
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The fickle weather changed from sunny to stormy within hours.