The word "vacilar" is a verb.
/vasiˈlaɾ/
The verb "vacilar" can be translated into English as: - To hesitate - To waver - To joke (in informal contexts) - To mess with someone (in slang)
In the Spanish language, "vacilar" primarily means to hesitate or to waver in decision-making. In certain regions, particularly in the Caribbean and informal contexts, it can also mean to joke or play around with someone.
The word is relatively common in oral speech, especially in casual or informal conversations. Its frequency of use can vary depending on the dialect. In countries like Puerto Rico, it is frequently used in both oral and written contexts, often associated with informal discourse.
Tengo que vacilar antes de tomar una decisión final.
I have to hesitate before making a final decision.
No vaciles en decir lo que piensas.
Don't waver in saying what you think.
En la fiesta, él siempre empieza a vacilar con sus amigos.
At the party, he always starts joking around with his friends.
"Vacilar" is often used in various idiomatic expressions, particularly in Caribbean Spanish, where it takes on additional meanings often related to jesting or teasing.
Vacilar en la cara de alguien.
To joke in someone's face.
No deberías vacilar en la cara de ella, podría ofenderse.
You shouldn't joke in her face; she might get offended.
Vacilar a alguien.
To mess with someone or tease someone.
Mis amigos son buenos para vacilar a todos en el grupo.
My friends are good at messing with everyone in the group.
No vaciles.
Don’t hesitate or mess around.
Si te invitan a la fiesta, no vaciles en ir.
If you're invited to the party, don’t hesitate to go.
Vacilar entre dos decisiones.
To waver between two decisions.
Estoy vacilando entre dos trabajos que me ofrecieron.
I am wavering between two job offers I received.
Vacilar como un niño.
To play around like a child.
A veces es bueno vacilar como un niño para no tomar la vida tan en serio.
Sometimes it’s good to play around like a child so you don’t take life too seriously.
The word "vacilar" comes from the Latin "vacillare," which means "to sway or be unsteady." This root reflects the sense of hesitation or fluctuation inherent in its meanings in modern Spanish. Over time, it has developed additional connotations related to joking and teasing, particularly in informal speech.
Burlarse (to mock, in contexts of joking)
Antonyms:
This comprehensive overview of "vacilar" emphasizes its versatile meanings in different contexts, illustrating its rich use in everyday Spanish conversation, particularly in informal and idiomatic expressions.