Falters

To falter is to lose strength or momentum, to become unsteady or hesitant in action, speech, or thought. It signifies a disruption in a normally smooth or confident process, often leading to a temporary pause or setback. This can apply to physical actions, like a runner losing their stride, or abstract concepts, such as a negotiation losing its progress. The degree of faltering can vary, from a minor wobble to a complete breakdown, but the common thread is a loss of stability or certainty. It can also represent the loss of a position or role.

Falters meaning with examples

• The runner falters near the finish line, his legs heavy, his pace slowing, and his chance for gold diminishing. The crowd held their breath as he struggled to maintain his speed, just a few steps away from the end.
• As the CEO began her speech, her voice falters, displaying her nervousness in front of the company. She takes a deep breath and regains her composure, continuing with confidence and clarity.
• The economy, after years of steady growth, falters due to increasing inflation, creating uncertainty among investors and consumers. Government intervention is crucial in helping to strengthen the weakening system.
• His memory falters as he recounts the events, struggling to recall the names of people and specific locations, forcing him to pause and gather his thoughts. The events had happened years ago.
• The relationship falters as the couple faces communication problems and differing life goals, revealing cracks in their foundation. Their once secure connection begins to fray and they start to go their separate ways.