Words / C2

nonk-uh-MITL/ˌnɒnkəˈmɪtl/

Non-committal means refusing a clear yes, no, or preference: a non-committal answer, remain non-committal. Vague is everyday; equivocal (already in the dictionary) is ambiguous, often on purpose. Commitment is the thing being withheld. Do not file a legally required decision as non-committal to keep the peace.

Meaning

Not expressing a clear opinion, preference, or decision.

Examples

• “A non-committal “we’ll see” left the clinic without a spare key.”
• “Vague is everyday. Equivocal is two-faced unclear (already in C2). Diplomatic delay with a return date is a diary. “We’ll see” with no owner is how a post stays empty. A minute must name a yes, a no, or a dated return.”

Good to know

Refusing to take a side. Everyday: vague / non-committal. Close: equivocal (already in C2). Peacekeeping is not a missing key.

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