volatile

• Describe algo que puede cambiar repentina e inesperadamente, especialmente para peor, o que es propenso a estallar o volverse inestable.

Describes something that is likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly, especially for the worse.

1. Chemically unstableB2formalscientific

   Tending to evaporate or change into vapor easily at ordinary temperatures.

   volátil (químicamente inestable)

   • Gasoline is a highly volatile liquid.
   • Volatile solvents should be stored in a cool place.
   • The chemist handled the volatile compound with extreme caution.

   Sinónimosevaporativefugitivevaporizablevaporous

   Antónimosnonvolatilestable

2. Unpredictable or changeableB2formal

   Likely to change suddenly and unexpectedly, especially for the worse.

   Volátil (cambiante, inestable)

   • The political situation in the region remains volatile.
   • Stock markets can be very volatile during economic crises.
   • He has a volatile temper that makes him difficult to work with.

   Sinónimoscapriciouschangeableerraticficklefluctuatinginconstantmercurialunpredictableunstablevariable

   Antónimoscalmconstantpredictablereliablestablesteady

3. Explosive or dangerousB2formal

   Potentially violent or explosive; likely to erupt.

   Explosivo o peligroso

   • The protest turned volatile when police arrived.
   • Relations between the two countries are increasingly volatile.
   • The meeting became volatile after the controversial proposal.

   Sinónimoscombustibledangerouseruptiveexplosivefieryinflammatorytenseunstable

   Antónimoscalmpeacefulsafestabletranquil

• Sustancia que se evapora o pasa fácilmente a estado de vapor, o que es inestable y puede cambiar rápidamente de estado.

A noun referring to a substance that changes readily from a solid or liquid state to a vapor.

1. Volatile substanceC1formalscientific

   A substance that changes readily from a solid or liquid to a vapor at relatively low temperatures.

   Sustancia volátil

   • The chemist carefully stored the volatile in a sealed container.
   • Volatiles like acetone evaporate quickly at room temperature.
   • The lab technician handled the volatile with protective gloves.

   Antónimosnonvolatilestable