flip-flopper

[OhAh]

Who is a flip-flopper? Is it a curse?

[mykwyner]

A flip-flopper is someone (usually a politician) who changes his opinion on something depending on the situation he finds himself in.

It is not a compliment.

[Humble]

Hi,
I remember this word widely used in the US election campaign by the supportes of Bush, to taunt his rival. If I am not mistaken, he voted for the Iraq intervention in Congress, but spoke against the war during the campaign.
(I'm experimenting with a Quick Reply.)

[OhAh]

Thanks! I'm translating articles about Bush. So now I understand the meaning of the word. What do you think about its synonyms?

[Humble]

Hi OhAh,
I'm afraid I don't know any synonyms. And I think it's unlikely anybody will find some. Let native speakers have their say.
Rgs

[Ouisch]

You could also say he's wishy-washy or a hypocrite.

[RobbieCook]

I've heard "machiavellian" used to describe behaviour like this, where people change their opinions/behaviour if it's likely to get them in to, or help them to remain, in power.

[Tdol]

Vacillate?

[mykwyner]

I've got it!

fickle

[cookson]

I'm not sure but I think flip flopping comes from the way a seal walks balances on one side and the on the other I remember reading books about seals flip flopping