Equivocal

/əˈkwɪvəkəl/ · adjective

Meaning

Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation..

Definitions by Sense

1. Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation.
2. Capable of being ascribed to different motives, or of signifying opposite feelings, purposes, or characters; deserving to be suspected.
3. Uncertain, as an indication or sign.
4. (philosophy) A word or expression capable of different meanings; an ambiguous term.

Example Sentences

equivocal words

an equivocal sentence

For the beauties of Shakespeare are not of so dim or equivocal a nature as to be visible only to learned eyes.

His actions are equivocal.

equivocal repentances

From that position he observed his confederate go through the curious procedure of kneeling down on the bedroom floor and for a full minute pressing his ear to the sheet of metal that had already engaged his attention. Then he rose to his feet, nodded, dusted his trousers, and Mr Carlyle moved to a less equivocal position.

How equivocal a test.

Some equivocals are merely ambiguous. Sharp is an example. It is equivocal since it is appropriate to call different types of things 'sharp' though what it is for them to be sharp differs.

Synonyms for equivocal

Antonyms for equivocal

Related Words

Word Forms

• more equivocal
• most equivocal
• æquivocal
• equivocals

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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