Try This Instead

For
Try This
ambiguous information
ambivalent information
uncertain information
vague information
unclear information
inconclusive information
an ambiguous attitude
an ambivalent attitude
an enigmatic attitude
an ambient attitude
an elusive attitude
an indecisive attitude
an ambiguous legacy
a mixed legacy
a controversial legacy
a questionable legacy
a contradictory legacy
an uncertain legacy
an ambiguous statement
a vague statement
a nebulous statement
a mysterious statement
a cryptic statement
an imprecise statement
an ambiguous position
an indeterminable position
an unspecified position
an indecisive position
an undefined position
an uncertain position

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ambiguous different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of ambiguous are cryptic, dark, enigmatic, equivocal, obscure, and vague. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.

an ambiguous directive

When can cryptic be used instead of ambiguous?

The words cryptic and ambiguous can be used in similar contexts, but cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.

cryptic hints of hidden treasure

When would dark be a good substitute for ambiguous?

The words dark and ambiguous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.

muttered dark hints of revenge

When is it sensible to use enigmatic instead of ambiguous?

The synonyms enigmatic and ambiguous are sometimes interchangeable, but enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.

enigmatic occult writings

When could equivocal be used to replace ambiguous?

While the synonyms equivocal and ambiguous are close in meaning, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.

moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

In what contexts can obscure take the place of ambiguous?

Although the words obscure and ambiguous have much in common, obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.

obscure poems

When is vague a more appropriate choice than ambiguous?

While in some cases nearly identical to ambiguous, vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.

a vague sense of obligation

Examples of ambiguous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The Supreme Court’s Role in Weakening EPA Authority The Supreme Court has played a central role in weakening the EPA’s regulatory power, a trend that began with its recent decision to overturn the Chevron doctrine, which had given agencies broad authority to interpret ambiguous statutes. Monica Sanders, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 Early losses were particularly ambiguous and difficult to diagnose. Lara Freidenfelds / Made By History, TIME, 15 Oct. 2024 He’s got the necessary bona fides to receive such an honor, including a Golden Lion for his participation in the 2005 Venice Biennale, but his work always struck me as ambiguous to a fault, at times even downright corny. Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 8 Oct. 2024 Between the lines: What had appeared to be a summer slump in the job market now looks more ambiguous — and possibly just a head fake. Neil Irwin, Axios, 4 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for ambiguous 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'ambiguous.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Podcast

Thesaurus Entries Near ambiguous

Cite this Entry

“Ambiguous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ambiguous. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on ambiguous

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!