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Equivocate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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equivocate

[ɪˈkwɪv.ə.keɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

in conversation

To use ambiguous or unclear expressions, usually to avoid commitment or to mislead.

Synonyms

dodge, evade, prevaricate, skirt the issue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
equivocate

This word is used when someone speaks ambiguously to avoid giving a direct answer, often in a way that is intentionally misleading or confusing.

  • When asked about the company's future, the CEO began to equivocate, offering vague and noncommittal responses
prevaricate

This word implies telling a falsehood or lying in a sneaky way to avoid the truth, and has a strong negative connotation.

  • The politician was known to prevaricate during difficult interviews, making it hard to trust his words
dodge

Often used informally, this word suggests avoiding a direct question or responsibility, typically in a way that seems evasive or crafty.

  • He tried to dodge the question about his past by changing the subject
evade

Used when someone avoids confronting a direct question or responsibility, sometimes implying they are doing so to escape potential negative consequences.

  • She evaded the reporter's question about her involvement in the scandal
skirt the issue

This phrase means to avoid discussing a problematic or controversial subject directly. It often indicates a strategic or deliberate effort to sidestep the topic.

  • Instead of addressing the budget cuts, the manager chose to skirt the issue by discussing future projects

Examples of usage

  • He tried to equivocate when asked about his involvement in the scandal.
  • She is known to equivocate when discussing sensitive topics.
  • Don't equivocate, just give a straight answer.
  • I can't stand it when politicians equivocate instead of giving a clear response.
  • The witness equivocated during the interrogation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Studies show that equivocation can be a defense mechanism, helping individuals avoid conflict or preserve relationships.
  • Individuals often equate deceptive speech patterns with a lack of trustworthiness, increasing skepticism.

Literature

  • Famous literary works, like Shakespeare's plays, frequently explore themes of equivocation, particularly in characters navigating moral ambiguity.
  • In 'Macbeth', characters use equivocation to mask their intentions, illustrating the slippery nature of truth.

Pop Culture

  • Equivocation is a common theme in political speeches, where leaders often speak ambiguously to appeal to diverse audiences without committing to specifics.
  • Reality TV shows often showcase contestants using equivocation to avoid direct answers during interviews or confrontations.

Communication Studies

  • Studies in communication indicate that people utilize equivocal language in negotiation settings to maintain flexibility in their positions.
  • Effective communication often involves clear language, yet equivocation can sometimes serve strategic purposes in debates or discussions.

Origin of 'equivocate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'aequivocare' meaning 'to call by the same name,' indicating a sense of ambiguity.
  • It made its way into English in the early 17th century, reflecting the complexity of speaking on sensitive topics.

The word 'equivocate' originated from the Latin word 'aequus' meaning 'equal' and 'vox' meaning 'voice'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The idea behind equivocation is to use language that is equal in meaning to more than one interpretation, leading to ambiguity or deception. In literature and rhetoric, equivocation has been used as a tool for persuasion and manipulation.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #36,979, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.