Erratic vs. capricious: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Erratic often implies a noticeable deviation from a standard or expected path, highlighting inconsistency without necessarily indicating whimsy or impulsiveness. Capricious, on the other hand, more strongly suggests impulsiveness or whimsical changes in behavior or mood, often with little reason.
What they have in common
Both erratic and capricious describe behavior or actions that are unpredictable and lack consistency. They are often used to characterize moods, patterns, or actions that deviate from what is considered normal or expected.
Examples
erratic
- His erratic driving made it difficult for other motorists to predict his next move.
- The stock market has been particularly erratic this season, causing many investors to worry.
- Her erratic attendance at work led to a formal meeting with her manager.
capricious
- The child’s capricious nature made it difficult to plan outings.
- Capricious weather patterns this year have baffled meteorologists.
- She was known for her capricious decisions, often changing her mind on a whim.
Which one is more common?
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