Words / C1

am-BIG-yoo-uh-s/æmˈbɪɡjuəs/

Ambiguous means a word, sentence, or situation can reasonably be read in more than one way. Native writers use it when the uncertainty is in the language itself, not merely because someone is confused. Vague is looser: the meaning is fuzzy. Unclear is everyday. Ambiguous is the precise term when two interpretations both fit.

Meaning

Having more than one possible meaning.

Examples

• “The message was ambiguous, so nobody knew what to do.”
• “The contract was ambiguous about who paid for repairs.”
• “Her smile was ambiguous: relief or disappointment?”

Good to know

ambiguous = two (or more) readings both fit. vaguer: unclear / vague. Noun: ambiguity.

Near in meaning

unclear

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