equivocal

IPA

Dictionary definition of equivocal

Unclear, ambiguous, and open to more than one interpretation.
"The data was equivocal and did not provide a clear conclusion."

Detailed meaning of equivocal

Equivocal is an adjective that refers to something that is open to more than one interpretation, or that is unclear or ambiguous in nature. It can also refer to a statement or action that is deliberately vague or unclear, often to avoid committing to a particular course of action or opinion. Equivocal implies a lack of clarity or certainty, often leaving room for multiple interpretations or possibilities.

In everyday language, equivocal is often used to describe something that is open to more than one interpretation, or that is unclear or ambiguous in nature. It can also refer to a statement or action that is deliberately vague or unclear, often to avoid committing to a particular course of action or opinion.

In Law, it can refer to a statement or action that is uncertain or open to multiple interpretations.

In general, Equivocal is an adjective that refers to something that is open to more than one interpretation, or that is unclear or ambiguous in nature. It implies a lack of clarity or certainty and can be used in different contexts such as personal, professional, or legal situations where a lack of clarity or certainty is present.

Example sentences containing equivocal

1. His equivocal response left us uncertain about his intentions.
2. The test results were equivocal, requiring further examination.
3. Her equivocal statement raised doubts about her commitment.
4. The politician's promises were often equivocal and vague.
5. The meaning of the poem was deliberately equivocal.
6. The jury found the evidence to be equivocal, leading to a hung verdict.

History and etymology of equivocal

The adjective 'equivocal' has its roots in Latin, specifically from the word 'aequivocus.' This Latin term combines 'aequi,' meaning 'equal,' and 'vocus,' meaning 'voice' or 'meaning.' In essence, 'aequivocus' referred to something with equal or ambiguous voices or meanings. Over time, it evolved into the English word 'equivocal' to describe things that are unclear, ambiguous, and open to more than one interpretation. When we delve into the etymology of 'equivocal,' we discover its essence as a term that suggests a duality or ambiguity in meaning, emphasizing the idea that something can be understood or interpreted in multiple, often contradictory ways. This historical connection underscores the concept of uncertainty and multiple possible meanings associated with 'equivocal.'

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Further usage examples of equivocal

1. The decision had an equivocal impact on the company's future.
2. The weather forecast for the weekend was equivocal, predicting both rain and sun.
3. His equivocal behavior made it challenging to trust him.
4. The movie's ending was intentionally equivocal, leaving viewers guessing.
5. The scientist's findings were met with equivocal reactions from peers.
6. The contract's terms were purposefully equivocal, favoring both parties.
7. The patient's symptoms were equivocal, making diagnosis difficult.
8. The art piece's meaning remained equivocal to critics.
9. The CEO's equivocal response to the scandal angered shareholders.
10. The implications of the study's results were equivocal at best.
11. The instructions on the package were so equivocal that assembly was a nightmare.
12. The candidate's stance on the issue was equivocal to appeal to a wider audience.
13. The message's equivocal tone made it challenging to discern the sender's feelings.
14. The equivocal nature of the situation left everyone uncertain about the outcome.
15. His statement was deliberately equivocal, neither confirming or denying the allegation.
16. His answer was equivocal, leaving her unsure of his intentions.
17. The results of the experiment were equivocal and required further investigation.
18. She gave an equivocal response when asked about her political beliefs.
19. His statements were equivocal, leading to confusion and misunderstandings.
20. The survey results were equivocal, indicating a need for more research.
21. She felt equivocal about the decision, torn between her options.
22. His behavior was equivocal, making it difficult to trust him.
23. The text was equivocal, and could be interpreted in different ways.
24. She was equivocal about attending the event, unsure if it was worth her time.
25. His tone was equivocal, leaving her feeling unsure and insecure.
26. The evidence was equivocal, requiring further analysis to reach a conclusion.