Words / C2

i-KWIV-uh-kl/ɪˈkwɪvəkl/

Equivocal means unclear because it can be read in more than one way, often on purpose. Use it instead of vague when the fog may be tactical (an equivocal statement). In speech say she sat on the fence or the answer was vague; equivocal is for analysis of language.

Meaning

Not clear; able to be understood in more than one way, often on purpose.

Examples

• “Her answer was equivocal.”
• “The communiqué was carefully equivocal.”
• “His smile was equivocal — relief or mockery?”

Good to know

Ambiguous, often deliberate. Everyday: vague / ambiguous.

Near in meaning

ambiguous

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