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equivocal

e·quiv·o·cal

equivocal

 
 
pronunciation:
ih kwI v kl
features:
Word Combinations (adjective), Word Parts
part of speech: adjective
definition 1: having at least two plausible alternative meanings, often intentionally so in order to deceive or avoid commitment; ambiguous.
We had hoped that her answer would help us make our decision, but her reply was equivocal.
synonyms:
ambiguous, two-edged
antonyms:
clear-cut, definite, explicit, unequivocal
similar words:
abstruse, cryptic, double, hedging, left-handed, noncommittal, obscure, oracular, vague
definition 2: doubtful or undecided, as in one's opinion or attitude toward something.
Her feelings about her son's choice of a wife were equivocal.
synonyms:
doubtful, dubious, questionable
antonyms:
clear, decisive, indisputable, unequivocal, unquestionable
similar words:
ambiguous
definition 3: of unknown or uncertain significance or classification.
Evidence for the effectiveness of this herb was equivocal.
synonyms:
ambiguous, indeterminate, inscrutable, uncertain
similar words:
enigmatic, hazy, indefinite, mysterious, unknown, vague
Word CombinationsSubscriber feature About this feature
derivations: equivocally (adv.), equivocality (n.), equivocalness (n.)
Word PartsSubscriber feature About this feature