Alternating States: Dan weer ..., dan weer ...
To describe rapid changes, shifting moods, or alternating states, Dutch uses the correlative phrase dan weer ..., dan weer .... It translates to "now ..., then ..." or "sometimes ..., sometimes ...".
You can use it to link two contrasting adjectives to describe a fluctuating state:
Actions and Word Order
You can also use this structure to describe alternating actions or variation (de afwisseling). If you place dan weer at the beginning of a clause, it takes up the first position in that sentence. This triggers inversion, meaning the verb must come immediately before the subject.
Words for Instability
Dutch has excellent descriptive vocabulary for temperamental behaviors and shifting trends. For people, moods, or animals, you can use wispelturig (fickle or capricious). For variables that swing back and forth, use the verb schommelen (to fluctuate).
If a pattern or climate is highly erratic, the word grillig is a perfect fit:
Exchange Rates and Predictability
When discussing financial trends or complex situations, you will often need to state whether things are steady. A rate (de koers) might be stabiel (stable) or entirely onberekenbaar (unpredictable).