adjective

erratic

/ɪˈrætɪk/ · say it: ih·RAT·ik

irregular and unpredictable

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) not following a regular or predictable pattern; changing frequently in an unexpected way

2. (adjective) not reliable or dependable; behaving in a way that cannot be predicted

Examples

1. The patient's erratic behavior worried the doctors.
2. His erratic work schedule made it difficult for his family to plan activities.

How to use erratic

Erratic describes something that lacks a predictable pattern or reliable consistency, often implying that variation is surprising or unwelcome. It emphasizes unpredictability more strongly than merely inconsistent, and often carries a note of concern or disapproval. Used for both abstract concepts (performance, mood) and concrete phenomena (weather, movement).

Common phrases

erratic behavior
erratic pattern
erratic performance
erratic weather
erratic driving

Synonyms

unpredictable · inconsistent · unreliable · irregular · unsteady

Opposites

consistent · reliable · predictable

Word family

erratically (adverb) · erraticism (noun)

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse erratic with erroneous; erratic means unpredictable or inconsistent, not simply wrong or mistaken.

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