Ambiguous – Definition & Meaning

Ambiguous is an adjective that is used to describe something that is unclear or has more than one meaning. It is a word that is often used in everyday language, and it is important to understand its meaning and implications.

Definitions

The word ambiguous can be defined as something that is open to more than one interpretation or is unclear in meaning. It can also refer to something that is doubtful or uncertain.

Origin

The word ambiguous has its roots in the Latin word “ambiguus,” which means “uncertain” or “doubtful.” It was first used in English in the 16th century, and its meaning has evolved over time.

Meaning in different dictionaries

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, ambiguous means “doubtful or uncertain especially from obscurity or indistinctness.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.”

Associations

Ambiguous is often associated with confusion, uncertainty, and doubt. It can be used to describe situations, statements, or actions that are not clear or easy to understand.

Synonyms

Some synonyms of ambiguous include unclear, vague, uncertain, indefinite, and equivocal.

Antonyms

The antonyms of ambiguous include clear, definite, certain, and unambiguous.

The same root words

There are several words that have the same root as ambiguous, including ambiguity, ambivalent, and ambidextrous. These words all relate to the idea of uncertainty or duality.

Example Sentences

Here are some examples of how the word ambiguous can be used in sentences:

  • The instructions were ambiguous, and I wasn’t sure what to do next.
  • His response was ambiguous, and I couldn’t tell if he was agreeing with me or not.
  • The meaning of the poem was ambiguous, and different readers interpreted it in different ways.
  • The contract was written in ambiguous language, which led to a dispute between the parties involved.
  • The politician’s statements were deliberately ambiguous, so that he could appeal to different groups of voters.
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