Unambiguous: meaning, definitions and examples

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unambiguous

 

[ ʌnæmˈbɪɡjuəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

clear definition

Not open to more than one interpretation; clear and having only one possible meaning or interpretation.

Synonyms

clear, definite, explicit, precise, unequivocal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unambiguous

Used when communicating something that cannot be misunderstood.

  • Her instructions were unambiguous, leaving no room for error.
  • The document's language is unambiguous to ensure compliance.
clear

Appropriate for general use when something is easy to understand or see.

  • The water in the lake is so clear you can see the bottom.
  • He gave a clear explanation of the project goals.
definite

Best used to stress certainty or a firm decision.

  • She gave a definite answer to the question.
  • We need a definite plan before we proceed.
explicit

Used when something is stated in a detailed and straightforward manner, often with a formal or serious tone.

  • The contract contains explicit terms regarding the responsibilities of each party.
  • She was explicit about the consequences of missing the deadline.
precise

Ideal when emphasizing exactness or detailed accuracy.

  • The scientist made precise measurements.
  • He provided a precise description of the location.
unequivocal

Often used in formal contexts to convey something very clear without any doubt or ambiguity.

  • Her response was unequivocal, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
  • The evidence provided an unequivocal conclusion.

Examples of usage

  • It was an unambiguous decision.
  • The instructions were unambiguous and easy to follow.
Context #2 | Adjective

clearly defined

Having a clear, definite, and easily understood meaning or interpretation.

Synonyms

clear-cut, crystal clear, distinct, straightforward, unmistakable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unambiguous

This word is often used in formal writing or speech to describe situations, instructions, or meanings that are direct and precise without any confusion.

  • The instructions were unambiguous, making it easy to complete the task on time.
  • Her explanation was unambiguous and left no room for misinterpretation.
clear-cut

Used to describe decisions, choices, or situations where the difference or outcome is clearly defined. This term is often used in everyday language.

  • The rules were clear-cut, so everyone knew what to expect.
  • It was a clear-cut victory for the team.
crystal clear

Employed when something needs to be emphasized as being extremely clear and easy to understand. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

  • She made it crystal clear that she was not interested in the proposal.
  • The instructions were crystal clear, so we had no trouble following them.
distinct

Often used to highlight differences or individuality. This word is common in both academic writing and everyday conversation.

  • There is a distinct difference between the two plans.
  • His voice was distinct and easily recognizable.
straightforward

This term describes something simple and easy to understand, with no complexity. It is frequently used in everyday conversation.

  • The process was straightforward and didn't require any special skills.
  • Her response was straightforward and honest.
unmistakable

Used to emphasize that something is so clear and obvious that it cannot be mistaken for anything else. This word can be applied in both formal and informal settings.

  • The aroma of fresh bread was unmistakable as we entered the bakery.
  • His talent was unmistakable, even from a young age.

Examples of usage

  • The rules were unambiguous and left no room for confusion.
  • His intention was unambiguous from the start.

Translations

Translations of the word "unambiguous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inequívoco

🇮🇳 स्पष्ट

🇩🇪 eindeutig

🇮🇩 tidak ambigu

🇺🇦 однозначний

🇵🇱 jednoznaczny

🇯🇵 明確な

🇫🇷 sans équivoque

🇪🇸 inequívoco

🇹🇷 belirsiz olmayan

🇰🇷 명확한

🇸🇦 لا لبس فيه

🇨🇿 jednoznačný

🇸🇰 jednoznačný

🇨🇳 明确的

🇸🇮 nedvoumen

🇮🇸 eindreginn

🇰🇿 анық

🇬🇪 ცალსახა

🇦🇿 açıq

🇲🇽 inequívoco

Etymology

The word 'unambiguous' originated from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and the word 'ambiguous' which comes from the Latin word 'ambiguus' meaning 'having double meaning'. The term 'unambiguous' first appeared in the 18th century and has been used to describe things that are clear, definite, and easily understood.

See also: ambiguously, unambiguously.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,414, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.