Ambiguity: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used when something can be interpreted in more than one way or is unclear because it has multiple meanings.

• The ambiguity in his statement left everyone confused.
• Legal documents should avoid ambiguity to prevent misinterpretation.

This word is used when there is a lack of definite knowledge or assuredness about something.

• The uncertainty about the weather made planning the trip difficult.
• Investment markets are often affected by political uncertainty.

Vagueness is used when something lacks clear definition or is too general to be understood precisely. It often has a slightly negative connotation.

• His vagueness about the project's deadlines led to delays.
• The instructions were criticized for their vagueness.

Equivocality is used when something is deliberately unclear or vague, often to mislead or avoid giving a direct answer.

• The politician's equivocality made it hard to understand his true intentions.
• His equivocality during the interview raised suspicions about his honesty.

Used when there is more than one possible meaning or interpretation, leaving things unclear.

• The contract's ambiguity left both parties confused.
• Her answer was filled with ambiguity, leaving everyone unsure of her true feelings.

Used when someone has mixed or contradictory feelings about something or someone.

• He felt ambivalence towards his new job, excited for the opportunity but sad to leave his old team.
• Her ambivalence about the relationship was evident in her indecision.

Used to describe something that is not well known or something difficult to understand due to vagueness or complexity.

• The philosopher's theories not only led him to obscurity but also made his work difficult to decipher.
• The band rose from obscurity to fame in just a few months.

Used to describe something or someone that is mysterious and difficult to understand.

• The ancient manuscript remained an enigma to scholars.
• He was an enigma, never revealing his true thoughts or intentions.

Use this word when there is a situation or statement that can have more than one meaning or interpretation. It's often used in literature, law, and everyday conversations.

• The ambiguity in her statement made it hard to know what she really meant.
• Legal documents should be written clearly to avoid ambiguity.

Typically used when someone lacks confidence in something or someone, or when questioning the truth or reliability. It can be used in personal feelings, scientific inquiries, and skepticism.

• She had serious doubts about the success of the project.
• I doubt we will finish on time.

This word applies when someone feels uncertain or lacks understanding about something. It's often used in everyday life, education, and problem-solving scenarios.

• There was some confusion about the meeting time.
• His explanation only added to my confusion.

Use this word to describe a lack of clarity or when something is not easy to understand. It can be used in describing visual, auditory, or conceptual elements.

• The unclearness of the instructions caused many mistakes.
• There was an unclearness in the image that made it difficult to identify.