capricious
Say it: kuh-PRISH-us /kəˈprɪʃəs/ · adjective
What “capricious” means
Changing your mind or mood suddenly, for no clear reason.
More precisely: Given to sudden, unaccountable changes of mood or behaviour.
Example: “A capricious client approved the logo, then rejected it the next morning without explanation.”
When to use it
A fairly formal, usually critical word for unpredictable decisions, moods or behaviour that change on a whim.
Similar words
fickle, unpredictable, mercurial
Where it comes from
From French capricieux, from Italian capriccio, 'a sudden start, whim'.
Quick check
A friend enthusiastically chooses a picnic, then abruptly insists on bowling without any reason or change in circumstances. She seems…
capricious or adaptable?
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capricious
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