ambiguity
Uncertainty or lack of clarity in meaning
Examples
In a meeting
“There's too much ambiguity in the contract terms—we need specifics.”
Over coffee
“The ambiguity in his text left me wondering if we're still meeting tonight.”
Why this word
confusion
ambiguity means multiple valid interpretations exist, while confusion is the mental state resulting
vagueness
ambiguity implies multiple clear meanings, while vagueness means lacking clarity or definition
uncertainty
ambiguity is about multiple meanings in expression, while uncertainty is about lack of knowledge
Usage tip
Perfect for identifying when communication lacks precision or has multiple interpretations
Etymology
Latin: ambiguus (doubtful) from ambi- (both ways) + agere (drive) — 'driving in two directions'
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Related words
broach
To bring up or introduce a topic for discussion
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly in few words.
ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
convey
To communicate or make an idea, feeling, or meaning known.
reiterate
To say something again for emphasis or clarity.
paraphrase
To restate something in different words to make it clearer or shorter.