Word
ambiguous
Meanings
Having more than one possible meaning; unclear or open to different interpretations.
Not clearly decided or expressed; uncertain or mixed in meaning or intention.
Definition
Ambiguous describes something that can be understood in more than one way and is not clear.
If something is ambiguous, it has more than one possible meaning or interpretation. This often happens with language, instructions, or situations where the details are not clear. Because of this, different people may understand it differently.
Examples
- The instructions were ambiguous, so we weren’t sure what to do first.
- Her answer was ambiguous and didn’t confirm whether she would come.
- The contract language is ambiguous and could cause problems later.
- He gave an ambiguous smile that was hard to interpret.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse ambiguous with ambivalent (having mixed feelings), but ambiguous means unclear in meaning.
More at B2 level
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- niche A niche is a specialized place, role, or market that suits a particular person or product.
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.