Definition
浮动 (fúdòng) is the most general verb for 'to fluctuate' — used for prices, exchange rates, moods, and attitudes. It also means 'to drift' physically (on water or in air). Among its siblings, 波动 (bōdòng) is the closest synonym for fluctuation, while 起伏 (qǐfú) emphasizes ups and downs (like terrain or emotions). The 漂- series (漂, 漂浮, 漂流, 漂泊) focuses on physical drifting or wandering, not fluctuation.
verb
to driftto float unsteadily (e.g., on water or in the air)to fluctuateto be changeable (e.g., prices, mood, exchange rates)
Examples
- 浮动。Qìqiú zài kōngzhōng qīngqīng fú dòng.The balloon drifted gently in the air.
- 浮动。Jīnnián rénmínbì de huìlǜ fú dòng jiào dà.The exchange rate of the RMB has fluctuated considerably this year.
- 浮动。Tā de tàidu zǒngshì fú dòng bù dìng.His attitude is always fluctuating and uncertain.
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