VocabDictionary

ambiguity

/ˌæm.bɪˈɡjuː.ə.ti/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The quality of being open to more than one interpretation; inexactness or doubtfulness.

Example Sentences:
  • We need to remove any ambiguity from the contract to avoid future legal disputes.
  • The politician's speech was full of studied ambiguity.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “ambiguity”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Middle English word 'ambiguitie', originating from the Latin 'ambiguitas', from 'ambiguus' (doubtful, ambiguous), based on 'ambigere' (to wander about, hesitate), combining 'ambi-' (around, on both sides) and 'agere' (to drive or lead).

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'ambi' (both) + 'guess' (to figure out): when something has two possible meanings, you have to guess which one is correct.

Frequently Asked Questions About “ambiguity

1. What is the meaning of “ambiguity” in English?

In English, ambiguity (noun) is defined as: “The quality of being open to more than one interpretation; inexactness or doubtfulness.”.

2. How do you use “ambiguity” in a sentence?

We need to remove any ambiguity from the contract to avoid future legal disputes.

3. What are English synonyms of “ambiguity”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “ambiguity”?

Derived from the Late Middle English word 'ambiguitie', originating from the Latin 'ambiguitas', from 'ambiguus' (doubtful, ambiguous), based on 'ambigere' (to wander about, hesitate), combining 'ambi-' (around, on both sides) and 'agere' (to drive or lead).