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Synonym Chooser

How is the word vagary distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of vagary are caprice, crotchet, and whim. While all these words mean "an irrational or unpredictable idea or desire," vagary stresses the erratic, irresponsible character of the notion or desire.

he had been prone to strange vagaries

When could caprice be used to replace vagary?

While in some cases nearly identical to vagary, caprice stresses lack of apparent motivation and suggests willfulness.

by sheer caprice she quit her job

When can crotchet be used instead of vagary?

The words crotchet and vagary can be used in similar contexts, but crotchet implies an eccentric opinion or preference.

a serious scientist equally known for his bizarre crotchets

Where would whim be a reasonable alternative to vagary?

While the synonyms whim and vagary are close in meaning, whim implies a fantastic, capricious turn of mind or inclination.

an odd antique that was bought on a whim

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of vagary Owning and running the restaurant also meant caring for the vast, aging Foster’s collection while managing the vagaries of heat, cold, humidity and stovetop. Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 26 Sep. 2025 But beyond the vagaries of this clearly religious belief in eternal reward, literature itself offers succor not just for the captive, but its creator. Ed Simon september 22, Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2025 Both his African heritage and his new exploration of the verisimilitudes and vagaries of New York City life paint the ongoing development of The Watchman, sometimes featured as the key figure as in the monumental portrait, AH! Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025 While Jane Austen is best known for skewering the vagaries of romantic love in her novels, there is another, equally complicated and meaningful type of relationship that runs through them, too — that of siblings. Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for vagary
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vagary
whim
Noun
  • Since the beginning of this administration, Silicon Valley’s biggest bosses have appeased the president, capitulating to his every whim — agreeing to pay export taxes, giving away equity to the government, defunding schools for Latino students and ending diversity programs.
    Mercury News & East Bay Times editorial, Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Lawrence propels herself through space like a woman possessed, and Ramsay underscores her mysterious inner drive with music and rhythm, letting songs illustrate Grace’s moods and whims, from the innocent to the romantic to the punishing.
    Katie Walsh, Boston Herald, 6 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Vagary.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vagary. Accessed 27 Nov. 2025.

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