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ambiguous
adjective
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ambiguous have the same meaning as unclear?
Both ambiguous and unclear can describe something that is difficult to understand because it is not shown or expressed clearly. However, ambiguous most often describes something that is unclear specifically because it can be understood in more than one way, or because it has more than one possible meaning.
What is the difference between ambiguous and ambivalent?
The Latin prefix ambi-, meaning "both," begins both ambiguous and ambivalent. Ambivalent relates to multiple and contradictory feelings (the second portion of this word comes from the Latin valēre, meaning "to be strong, be effective, have worth"). Ambiguous, on the other hand, often describes something with several possible meanings that create uncertainty. The -ig- in ambiguous comes ultimately from Latin agere ("to drive, to lead"); paired with ambi-, it suggests movement in two directions at once, and hence, a wavering or uncertainty.
What is the noun form of ambiguous?
Ambiguous is an adjective. The noun form related to this word may be either ambiguity or ambiguousness. The adverb is ambiguously.
Synonyms
obscure, dark, vague, enigmatic, cryptic, ambiguous, equivocal mean not clearly understandable.
obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.
dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.
vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.
enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.
cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.
ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.
equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.
Examples of ambiguous in a Sentence
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ambiguous.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
Latin ambiguus "unresolved, hesitating in mind, of uncertain outcome, having more than one possible meaning, untrustworthy" (from ambigō, ambigere "to dispute, be undecided, call in question, be in doubt" —from amb- "around, about, on both sides" + agere "to drive [cattle], be in motion, do, perform"— + -uus, deverbal adjective suffix) + -ous — more at ambient entry 1, agent
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2
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Cite this Entry
“Ambiguous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ambiguous. Accessed 30 Oct. 2024.
Kids Definition
ambiguous
adjectiveMore from Merriam-Webster on ambiguous
Nglish: Translation of ambiguous for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of ambiguous for Arabic Speakers
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