volatile
Meaning: Liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse; or (in chemistry) evaporating readily at normal temperatures.
Volatile has both figurative and scientific senses. Figuratively, it describes situations, markets, personalities, or political environments that are unstable and prone to sudden change. In chemistry, it refers to substances that evaporate easily. In computing, volatile memory loses its data when power is removed. It collocates with 'market,' 'situation,' 'substance,' 'temper,' and 'region.'
Examples
- Stock markets remained volatile throughout the quarter, with sharp daily swings. 整个季度股市持续动荡,每日大幅波动。Los mercados bursátiles se mantuvieron volátiles durante todo el trimestre, con fuertes oscilaciones diarias.株式市場は四半期を通じて不安定な状態が続き、日々大きく変動しました。주식 시장은 분기 내내 불안정한 상태를 유지하며 매일 큰 폭으로 등락했습니다.
- The volatile political situation in the region made diplomatic negotiations extremely difficult. 该地区动荡的政治局势使外交谈判极为困难。La volátil situación política de la región dificultaba enormemente las negociaciones diplomáticas.その地域の不安定な政治情勢により、外交交渉は極めて困難でした。해당 지역의 불안정한 정치 상황으로 인해 외교 협상이 극도로 어려웠습니다.
- Petrol is a highly volatile substance and must be stored away from heat sources. 汽油是一种高度易挥发的物质,必须远离热源存放。La gasolina es una sustancia altamente volátil que debe almacenarse lejos de fuentes de calor.ガソリンは非常に揮発性の高い物質であり、熱源から離れた場所に保管しなければなりません。휘발유는 매우 휘발성이 높은 물질이므로 열원으로부터 떨어진 곳에 보관해야 합니다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: general, academic, professional
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Latin volatilis (fleeting, transitory, flying), from volare (to fly). Entered English via Old French in the early 17th century, initially describing birds and flying creatures before shifting to its modern figurative meanings.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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