What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
borderline
Example
The patient's test results were borderline, indicating that further examination is needed. [borderline: adjective]
Example
She has a borderline personality disorder, which means she exhibits traits of both anxiety and depression. [borderline: noun]
equivocal
Example
His answer to the question was equivocal, leaving us unsure of his true intentions. [equivocal: adjective]
Example
The politician's speech was intentionally equivocal, allowing him to appeal to different groups without committing to a specific stance. [equivocal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Equivocal is more commonly used than borderline in everyday language. Equivocal is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while borderline is less common and has more specific applications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between borderline and equivocal?
Both borderline and equivocal can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, equivocal may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its Latin origin.
