# vagaries

/ˈveɪɡɝiz/ (US) · /vˈeɪɡəɹˌɪz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vagaries
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

sudden changes that are hard to predict or control, like in weather or people's moods. You use it when things keep shifting for no clear reason.

For teachers: unpredictable and erratic changes or fluctuations in conditions, behaviour, or events. Commonly collocates with 'of', as in 'of the weather' or 'of public opinion'.

## Examples

- Farmers worry about the vagaries of the weather.
- The outdoor wedding planner always has a backup tent because of the vagaries of spring weather.
- Investors who survived the vagaries of the market learned to stay calm when prices swung wildly for no clear reason.

## Synonyms

whim

## Antonyms

stability, consistency, predictability, regularity

## Usage notes

- Used almost always in the plural; commonly followed by 'of' ('the vagaries of').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.