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EQUIVOCAL
| Pronunciation (US): |  | (GB): | |
I. (adjective)
Sense 1
Meaning:
Uncertain as a sign or indication
Example:
the evidence from bacteriologic analysis was equivocal
Classified under:
Similar:
inconclusive (not conclusive; not putting an end to doubt or question)
Sense 2
Meaning:
Open to two or more interpretations; or of uncertain nature or significance; or (often) intended to mislead
Example:
an equivocal response to an embarrassing question
Synonyms:
Classified under:
Similar:
double; forked (having two meanings with intent to deceive)
evasive (deliberately vague or ambiguous)
indeterminate (of uncertain or ambiguous nature)
Also:
ambiguous (having more than one possible meaning)
Antonym:
unequivocal (admitting of no doubt or misunderstanding; having only one meaning or interpretation and leading to only one conclusion)
Derivation:
equivocalness (unclearness by virtue of having more than one meaning)
Sense 3
Meaning:
Open to question
Example:
his conscience reproached him with the equivocal character of the union into which he had forced his son
Classified under:
Adjectives
Similar:
questionable (subject to question)
