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Vicissitude
01
the inherent tendency of life or nature to change, often through a cycle of alternating conditions such as prosperity and hardship, growth and decay, or joy and sorrow
Examples
The vicissitudes of the seasons shaped the rhythm of village life.
Ancient philosophers pondered the vicissitudes of human existence.
02
a change, often unexpected, in one's situation or fortune
Examples
He endured the vicissitudes of a career in politics.
Their friendship survived the vicissitudes of time and distance.
