ambiguous
Open to more than one interpretation; not clear or decided.
Examples
In a meeting
“The requirements are ambiguous — we need to clarify scope before starting.”
Over coffee
“His text was ambiguous — I couldn't tell if he was serious or joking.”
Why this word
unclear
Ambiguous specifically means having multiple possible interpretations, while unclear just means difficult to understand for any reason
vague
Ambiguous implies multiple specific interpretations are possible, while vague means lacking detail or precision
confusing
Ambiguous describes inherent multiple meanings, while confusing describes the effect on the reader and can have various causes
Usage tip
Describes the message, not the person. Say 'the instructions are ambiguous', not 'you're being ambiguous'.
Etymology
Latin ambiguus — ambi (both, around) + agere (to drive), literally 'driving both ways'
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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.
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.
explicit
Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion or doubt.