B15K

Ambiguous

UK //æmˈbɪɡ.ju.əs//US //æmˈbɪɡ.ju.əs//

Definition

Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.

In simple words: Something that can be understood in different ways.

Examples

The instructions were so ambiguous that no one could follow them.
Her ambiguous response left us all confused about her opinion.
In legal terms, ambiguous language can lead to disputes.
Many poems are intentionally ambiguous to allow varied interpretations.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about language or situations where meanings are unclear. Avoid in formal writing when clarity is needed.

Grammar pattern

ambiguous + object

Memory hint

Think of 'a big m' — a letter that has different meanings depending on the context.

Collocations

ambiguous statement
ambiguous situation
ambiguous language
ambiguous response
ambiguous meaning

Synonyms

unclear
vague
equivocal
indeterminate
obscure

Antonyms

clear
definite
unambiguous

Common mistakes

Used as 'ambiguous to' instead of 'ambiguous about'
Confused with similar words like 'vague' or 'obscure'
Overused in contexts that require more specific language