Equivocal Definition

equivocal
adjective
  1. open to two or more interpretations; or of uncertain nature or significance; or (often) intended to mislead; "an equivocal statement"; "the polling had a complex and equivocal (or ambiguous) message for potential female candidates"; "the officer's equivocal behavior increased the victim's uneasiness"; "popularity is an equivocal crown"; "an equivocal response to an embarrassing question"
  2. open to question; "aliens of equivocal loyalty"; "his conscience reproached him with the equivocal character of the union into which he had forced his son"-Anna Jameson
  3. uncertain as a sign or indication; "the evidence from bacteriologic analysis was equivocal"

Usage tips for "equivocal"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "equivocal" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for equivocal to find words that pair well.

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