Equivocalness is the quality or state of being open to more than one interpretation; ambiguity. It describes something that is not clear, distinct, or certain, and can therefore lead to confusion or misunderstanding. This ambiguity can arise from the use of vague language, multiple meanings of words, or a lack of context. A high degree of equivocalness can be problematic in communication, legal proceedings, and situations where clarity is crucial, as it allows for multiple and often contradictory conclusions. Understanding equivocalness is key to critical thinking and analysis, requiring one to carefully evaluate information and context to discern the intended meaning.
Equivocalness meaning with examples
- The politician's statement about the proposed tax cuts was riddled with equivocalness. He used phrases like "we'll consider all options" and "the impact will be evaluated," leaving voters unsure whether he supported or opposed the measure. This lack of clarity allowed him to appease different factions, but frustrated those seeking a clear policy stance. Ultimately, this equivocalness led to a loss of trust and difficulty holding him accountable to the electorate.
- The witness's testimony displayed a marked degree of equivocalness. His answers often used conditional clauses and hedged statements, making it difficult for the jury to understand what he actually saw or heard. Defense lawyers exploited this equivocalness, arguing that it created reasonable doubt regarding the witness's certainty. Consequently, the ambiguity in his account complicated the process of establishing the facts and reaching a fair verdict.
- The artist's abstract painting was praised for its evocative qualities, yet criticized for its equivocalness. Viewers interpreted the artwork in vastly different ways, some seeing joy, others despair, and still others finding no discernible meaning. This inherent ambiguity, while artistically interesting, frustrated some critics who sought a clear message. The painting's equivocalness became a subject of prolonged debate regarding the nature and purpose of art.
- The scientific report presented findings that contained several areas of equivocalness. While the researchers identified trends, they admitted the data contained some contradictory conclusions. The team used cautious language in the discussion section, pointing out possibilities rather than definitive conclusions. The scientific community responded with healthy debate, with researchers calling for further study to address the ambiguity, improve clarity, and resolve the equivocalness.
Equivocalness Synonyms
ambiguity ambivalence equivocation imprecision indistinctness opacity uncertainty vaguenessEquivocalness Antonyms
certainty clarity definiteness explicitness lucidity precision specificity unequivocalnessEquivocalness Crossword Answers
9 Letters
AMBIGUITY