Ambiguous

/æmˈbɪɡ.ju.əs/

Meaning & Definition

adjective
Open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.
The instructions were ambiguous, leaving many students confused about what to do.
Having a double meaning or being unclear because of the lack of precision.
His ambiguous remarks led to misunderstandings among his colleagues.
Difficult to assign a definite value or meaning.
The law’s ambiguous language has caused legal experts to debate its implications for years.
Not clear in meaning; vague.
Her ambiguous answer did not satisfy the interviewer’s question.
Capable of being interpreted in more than one way.
The film’s ending was intentionally ambiguous, prompting discussions among viewers.

Etymology

From Latin 'ambiguus', meaning 'uncertain, undecided'

Common Phrases and Expressions

ambiguous situation
A situation that can be interpreted in more than one way.
ambiguous message
A message that has unclear or multiple meanings.

Related Words

ambiguity
The quality of being open to more than one interpretation.
ambivalence
The state of having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something.

Slang Meanings

Wishy-washy
Stop being so wishy-washy and make a decision!
In the gray
His explanation was really in the gray and didn't help at all.