volatile
/ˈvɒl.ə.taɪl/ IELTSAcademic
adjective
A volatile person or situation changes quickly and may become angry, unsafe, or unstable. A volatile substance changes into gas easily at normal temperatures.
- The political situation remains volatile.
- He has a volatile temper.
- The chemical is highly volatile.
Adinary Nuance
Volatile is stronger than unstable and more serious than unpredictable. Use it when change is fast and may cause trouble, especially in politics, markets, or emotions. It is less about simple mood changes and more about something that can turn risky or explosive.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- dễ biến động
- Spanish
- volátil
- Chinese
- 不稳定的
- Japanese
- 不安定な
- Korean
- 변동이 심한
Etymology
Volatile comes from Latin volatilis, meaning “fleeting” or “flying.” It entered English in the 15th century and kept the idea of quick change.
Common phrases
volatile marketvolatile situationvolatile temperhighly volatile
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is volatile a formal word?
- Yes, it is common in formal writing, news, and academic English.
- What's the difference between volatile and unstable?
- Volatile suggests quick and possibly dangerous change. Unstable is broader and less intense.
- Can I use volatile for a person?
- Yes, especially for someone with a bad temper or sudden emotional changes.
- Does volatile always mean bad?
- Usually, yes. It often suggests risk, danger, or serious instability.