ambiguous

[æmˈbɪɡjuəs]

ambiguous Definition

  • 1open to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning
  • 2unclear or inexact because a choice between alternatives has not been made

Using ambiguous: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ambiguous" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The wording of the contract is ambiguous and could be interpreted in different ways.

  • Example

    Her response to my question was ambiguous, so I wasn't sure what she meant.

  • Example

    The painting's meaning is intentionally ambiguous, allowing the viewer to draw their own conclusions.

ambiguous Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for ambiguous

Antonyms for ambiguous

Phrases with ambiguous

  • a statement that can be interpreted in more than one way

    Example

    His ambiguous statement left us unsure of his intentions.

  • a visual image that can be interpreted in more than one way

    Example

    The ambiguous figure could be seen as either a vase or two faces.

  • a condition in which the external genitalia are not clearly male or female

    Example

    The baby was born with ambiguous genitalia, and the parents had to make a difficult decision about surgery.

Origins of ambiguous

from Latin 'ambiguus', meaning 'doubtful'

📌

Summary: ambiguous in Brief

The term 'ambiguous' [æmˈbɪɡjuəs] refers to something that is open to more than one interpretation or unclear because a choice between alternatives has not been made. It is often used to describe statements, figures, or situations that can be interpreted in different ways. 'Ambiguous' is an adjective with synonyms like 'vague,' 'unclear,' and 'equivocal.' Its antonyms include 'clear,' 'definite,' and 'unequivocal.'