equivocal

Definitions

equi- (equal, from aequus) + voc (voice) + -al = "having equal voices." When two meanings speak with equal force, you can't tell which is intended — hence ambiguous, deliberately vague.

Example Sentences

• 1.

  The minister gave an equivocal answer to avoid committing himself.

• 2.

  Test results were equivocal, so the doctors ordered more scans.

• 3.

  Her equivocal smile left everyone guessing.

Easily Confused

equivocal vs ambiguous — both mean "open to two readings," but equivocal usually implies a deliberate dodge (an equivocal politician avoiding a straight answer), while ambiguous can be accidental (an ambiguous sentence). Its antonym is unequivocal = perfectly clear, no hedging.