What is faltering? Pronunciation and usage in English

Let's break down how to use the word "faltering" in English. It's a great word that describes a state of weakness or instability, and it can be used in a variety of contexts.

1. Core Meaning:

• Faltering primarily means weakening, unsteady, or hesitant. It suggests something is losing its strength or control and is beginning to fail. Think of it as a slight, often temporary, lack of firmness.

2. Parts of Speech & Usage:

• Adjective: This is the most common way you’ll encounter “faltering.” It describes a noun.

  • Example: “He gave a faltering speech, clearly nervous about public speaking.” (Describes the speech)
  • Example: “Her faltering hand shook as she signed the contract.” (Describes her hand)
  • Example: “The old bridge was showing faltering signs of collapse.” (Describes the bridge)

• Verb (present participle/gerund): It can also be used as a verb describing an action.

  • Example: “He was faltering in his support for the policy.” (Describing his action – he’s wavering)
  • Example: “Her voice was faltering as she tried to remember the lyrics.” (Describing her action – her voice is unsteady)

3. Common Contexts & Nuances:

• Physical Weakness: This is a very common use.

  • “His legs were faltering with the exertion.” (He was getting weak and unsteady on his feet.)
  • “The patient’s breathing became faltering.” (His breathing was shallow and irregular.)

• Emotional Instability: Often used to describe nervousness, doubt, or lack of confidence.

  • “She gave a faltering response to the question.” (Her answer was hesitant and not very firm.)
  • “He offered a faltering apology.” (His apology was weak and uncertain.)

• Performance (Speaking, Writing, etc.): It describes a decline in quality or effectiveness.

  • “The evidence presented was faltering and lacked a clear connection.” (The evidence wasn’t strong or convincing.)
  • “The singer’s voice was faltering during the high notes.” (The voice got weaker and unsteady.)

• Machines/Systems: Used to describe something malfunctioning or losing functionality.

  • “The engine was faltering and threatening to stall.”

4. Synonyms:

• Weakening
• Hesitant
• Unsteady
• Wavering
• Tremulous
• Uncertain
• Erratic

5. Tips for Using it Effectively:

• Show, Don't Tell: Instead of just saying “He was faltering,” describe how he was faltering. ("He began to stumble, his steps becoming slower and less certain.")
• Combine with Adverbs: Using adverbs can add more detail: “He gave a nervously faltering speech.” “Her hand was slightly faltering.”
• Consider the Specific Context: The precise nuance of "faltering" will depend on what you’re describing.

Example Sentences Combining Multiple Aspects:

• “The old building was showing faltering signs of decay, with cracks spreading across the walls and the foundations faltering beneath.” (Physical and performance)
• “Her confidence was faltering as she faced the difficult question, her voice faltering with each word.” (Emotional and verbal)

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To help me tailor the advice even further, could you tell me:

• What kind of writing are you doing (e.g., creative writing, academic, business)?
• Can you give me an example sentence where you've thought about using "faltering"?