What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equivocating
Example
The politician was equivocating on the issue, trying to avoid taking a clear stance. [equivocating: verb]
Example
Her equivocating response left me unsure of what she really meant. [equivocating: gerund or present participle]
hedge
Example
He hedged his answer, not wanting to commit to a specific plan. [hedged: verb]
Example
Her response was full of hedges and qualifiers, making it difficult to understand her true position. [hedges: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hedge is more commonly used than equivocate in everyday language, especially in written language such as business or academic writing. Equivocate is less common and is typically used in spoken language or in literary works.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between equivocating and hedge?
Both equivocate and hedge can be used in formal or informal contexts, but hedge is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels, from casual conversation to formal writing.
