fluctuation / swaying
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fluctuation
A change or irregular up and down movement in values, prices, temperatures, or moods. It describes instability or oscillation around an average value.
Die starken Schwankungen an der Börse beunruhigen die Anleger.
The strong fluctuations on the stock market are worrying investors.
The noun 'die Schwankung' (fluctuation/swaying) is derived directly from the verb 'schwanken' (to fluctuate / to sway). The ending '-ung' forms a feminine noun that describes the process or result of 'schwanken' (fluctuating/swaying), a very common pattern in German.
Das Schiff begann im Sturm stark zu schwanken.
The ship began to sway strongly in the storm.
The word is very often used in the plural 'Schwankungen' (fluctuations), especially when referring to repeated or irregular changes over a period of time.
Die ständigen Schwankungen seiner Laune sind anstrengend.
The constant fluctuations in his mood are exhausting.
In the figurative sense, 'Schwankung' (fluctuation) is often combined with adjectives like 'stark' (strong), 'gering' (slight), or 'saisonal' (seasonal). Typical compounds are 'Kursschwankungen' (price/exchange-rate fluctuations), 'Preisschwankungen' (price fluctuations), or 'Stimmungsschwankungen' (mood swings).
Im Frühling gibt es oft starke Temperaturschwankungen.
In spring there are often strong temperature fluctuations.
You can tell from context whether a physical movement or an abstract change is meant. With objects like ships or bridges, it is about movement. With topics like the stock market, temperature, or feelings, it is about changes in values.
Die Schwankungen der Hängebrücke im Wind waren beängstigend.
The swaying of the suspension bridge in the wind was frightening.
change
'die Veränderung' and 'die Schwankung' both have to do with something not staying the same. However, 'Veränderung' is more general and can be permanent or profound. 'Schwankung' means an irregular up-and-down movement, for example in prices, temperatures, numbers, or moods. Learners may confuse the words because a fluctuation is also a kind of change. The difference is: with a 'Veränderung', something can simply move in a new direction. With a 'Schwankung', something goes back and forth or up and down.
Vor der Reise beobachtet mein Nachbar die Schwankung der Flugpreise genau.
Before the trip, my neighbor watches the fluctuation in flight prices closely.
Sie merkt, dass die Veränderung in der Werkstatt den Alltag leichter macht.
She notices that the change in the workshop makes everyday life easier.