volatile
Pronunciation
Adjective
B2 Upper-intermediate
Quick answer
Likely to change suddenly and unpredictably, especially for the worse, or easily evaporating.
Synonyms and antonyms
Usage notes
In chemistry, "volatile" describes a liquid that evaporates quickly at normal temperatures, a more technical use of the same basic idea.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "The stock market has been extremely _____ this month."
Answer: volatile
In your own words, what does "volatile" mean?
Likely to change suddenly and unpredictably, especially for the worse, or easily evaporating.
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