Words / B2

amb-i-GYOO-uh-tee/ˌæmbɪˈɡjuːəti/

Ambiguity is having more than one possible meaning: the ambiguity of the clause, deliberate ambiguity. Vagueness is everyday and looser (unclear, not necessarily two readings); double meaning is blunter. Ambiguous is the adjective. In speech, it could mean two things is enough. Ambiguity can be a fault in a rule or a tool in poetry. Do not call a missing instruction ambiguity — that is omission.

Meaning

The state of having more than one possible meaning.

Examples

• “The ambiguity of the rule caused an argument.”
• “The ambiguity in “reasonable time” left both sides sure they were right.”
• “Cut the ambiguity: say Friday 4 p.m., not “as soon as possible.””

Good to know

Two or more possible meanings. Adjective: ambiguous. Everyday: it could mean two things. Contrast: vagueness (unclear); omission (missing).

Near in meaning

vagueness

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