equivocate
UK/i'kwivәkeit/US
TOEFLGREC2
Definitions
v.
To use ambiguous language in order to mislead or avoid commitment.
说模棱两可的话，含糊其辞，支吾搪塞
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedequi- (equal) + voc (voice) + -ate = to "speak with equal voices" — to talk in a way that can be read two ways, so you never have to commit.
Root voc still carries 54 more wordsExample Sentences
- 1.
When asked directly, the minister began to equivocate.
- 2.
Stop equivocating and give me a straight answer.