Equivocal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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equivocal

[ɪˈkwɪvək(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

in decision-making

Open to more than one interpretation; ambiguous. Equivocal statements can often lead to confusion and misunderstandings.

Synonyms

ambiguous, inconclusive, uncertain, vague.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
equivocal	This word is often used when something could have multiple interpretations, especially if there is an intention to mislead or avoid commitment. Her response to the question was equivocal, leaving everyone unsure about her true feelings. The politician's equivocal statements fueled further speculation.
ambiguous	Use this word when referring to situations, statements, or words that are open to more than one interpretation and are unclear. The instructions were so ambiguous that no one was sure what to do. He gave an ambiguous answer that didn't clarify his position.
uncertain	Use this word when describing a lack of certainty or confidence in what will happen or what is true. He felt uncertain about his decision to move to a new city. The weather forecast is uncertain; it might rain or it might be sunny.
vague	This word should be used when something is unclear, lacking in detail, or hard to understand precisely. He gave a vague description of the event, which didn't help the investigation. Her directions were too vague, and as a result, they got lost.
inconclusive	This word is best used when describing results or outcomes that do not lead to a definite conclusion or do not provide enough information to make a clear decision. The medical tests were inconclusive, so more screening was needed. The jury found the evidence to be inconclusive and could not reach a verdict.

Examples of usage

His equivocal answer left us unsure of his true intentions.
The equivocal nature of the evidence made it difficult to reach a conclusion.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

in language

Ambiguous or having more than one possible meaning. Equivocal language can be misleading and deceptive.

Synonyms

ambiguous, indeterminate, uncertain, vague.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
equivocal	Used when something is intentionally unclear or has double meanings, often to mislead or avoid making a direct statement. His reply was equivocal, leaving everyone unsure of his true intentions The politician's equivocal answers raised more questions than they addressed
ambiguous	Used when something can be understood in more than one way and it's not clear which interpretation is correct. Often used in the context of language and communication. The ending of the movie was ambiguous, leaving the audience to decide their own interpretation The instructions for the task were ambiguous, causing confusion among the employees
vague	Used when something is not clearly expressed, defined, or understood, often resulting in confusion or misinterpretation. Her explanation was vague, leaving everyone puzzled about what she meant The concept was too vague to be useful in solving the problem
uncertain	Used to describe a state of doubt or lack of confidence, often about future events or outcomes. She felt uncertain about her decision to move to a new city The weather forecast is uncertain, so we should be prepared for anything
indeterminate	Used to describe something that cannot be fixed, known, or accurately defined, especially in a scientific or mathematical context. The scientist faced indeterminate results, making it difficult to draw any solid conclusions The time of the event is still indeterminate; we'll have to wait for more information

Examples of usage

The equivocal wording of the contract led to disputes between the parties.
Her equivocal response did not provide a clear answer to the question.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Philosophy

In philosophical discussions, something described as equivocal can lead to debates about truth and subjective interpretation.
It challenges the idea of clear communication, showing that language and meaning can sometimes be complex and layered.

Literature

Writers often use equivocal language to create suspense or ambiguity in their stories, allowing readers to interpret the text differently.
Equivocal statements in poetry can evoke multiple emotions, making interpretations richer and more personal.

Psychology

In psychology, equivocal situations can cause confusion or anxiety because individuals may struggle to determine the best course of action.
Cognitive biases can influence how we interpret equivocal messages, as people tend to favor interpretations that confirm their existing beliefs.

Communication

In everyday conversation, equivocal language can lead to misunderstandings if speakers and listeners have different interpretations.
Politicians and spokespersons often use equivocal statements intentionally to avoid commitment to a specific stance, maintaining flexibility.

Origin of 'equivocal'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'aequivocus', meaning 'having the same voice'.
The prefix 'equi-' means equal, while '-vocal' relates to voice or calling, helping to understand its meaning about dual meanings.

The word 'equivocal' comes from the Latin word 'aequivocus', which means 'of equal voice'. It first appeared in English in the late 16th century. The term originally referred to words or expressions with multiple meanings or interpretations, leading to uncertainty or ambiguity.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,675, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16672 tonne
16673 appendage
16674 auspicious
16675 equivocal
16676 sunflower
16677 cadet
16678 whiskers
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