WordValeequivocation
the use of ambiguous language to deceive
In more detail
1. (noun) the act of using ambiguous or unclear language to mislead or deceive someone
2. (noun) an ambiguous or misleading statement or phrase
Examples
- 1. The politician's equivocation about the scandal made voters distrust him.
- 2. His equivocation left the audience unsure about his true position on the issue.
How to use equivocation
Equivocation refers both to the deliberate act of using unclear language to mislead and to the unclear statement itself. It carries a negative connotation, implying intentional deception or avoidance of the truth rather than mere misunderstanding. It is commonly used in formal contexts such as legal, philosophical, or political discourse.
Common phrases
- resort to equivocation
- without equivocation
- accused of equivocation
- charges of equivocation
Synonyms
ambiguity · evasion · hedging · obfuscation · double-talk
Opposites
clarity · frankness · directness
Word family
equivocate (verb) · equivocal (adjective) · equivocally (adverb)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse equivocation with simple ambiguity, but equivocation specifically implies deliberate intent to deceive or evade, whereas ambiguity may be unintentional.
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