Synonyms for

Ambiguity

Verb / ˌæmbɪˈgju:ʌti: / Another word for ambiguity — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Ambiguity means something is unclear or can be interpreted in more than one way.

Synonyms & similar words

unequivocalness equivocalness unambiguity uncertainty vagueness equivocation ambivalence doubt indecision indeterminacy nebulosity obscurity opacity puzzlement bewilderment perplexity enigma mystery equivocalness dubiousness indistinctness inexactitude imprecision

Synonyms by register

Formal

equivocation indefiniteness uncertainty obscurity

Informal

vagueness muddiness fuzziness

Literary

enigma riddle paradox

Antonyms

clarity certainty precision directness obviousness unambiguity

Common collocations

  • inherent ambiguity
  • potential ambiguity
  • avoid ambiguity
  • remove ambiguity
  • source of ambiguity
  • linguistic ambiguity
  • legal ambiguity

Word family

noun ambiguity
adjective ambiguous

Usage note

Ambiguity refers to a lack of clarity or a double meaning. It is often used in contexts where precision is important, such as legal documents or technical writing.

Example sentences

  1. The teacher's instructions had some ambiguity, so the students weren't sure what to do.
  2. The ambiguity in the story made it difficult to understand the meaning.
  3. The politician's statement had ambiguity, so people didn't know what he really meant.
  4. The ambiguity of the painting made it interesting to interpret in different ways.
  5. The contract had ambiguity, so the lawyers had to clarify the terms.

Quotes

  • Ambiguity is the enemy of accountability. - Andy Grove
  • The greatest enemy of communication is the illusion of it. - William H. Whyte Jr.
  • The ambiguity of life is one of its greatest joys. - Oscar Wilde

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