Definition of equivocate
equivocated
;equivocating
intransitive verb
1 : to use equivocal language especially with intent to deceive
2 : to avoid committing oneself in what one says
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Examples of equivocate in a Sentence
The applicant seemed to be equivocating when we asked him about his last job.
When asked about her tax plan, the candidate didn't equivocate.
When Should You Use Equivocal?
With its root equi-, meaning "equal", equivocate suggests speaking on both sides of an issue at the same time. An equivocal answer is one that manages not to take a stand; an unequivocal answer, by contrast, is strong and clear. Politicians are famous for equivocating, but equivocation is also typical of used-car salesmen, nervous witnesses in a courtroom, and guys whose girlfriends ask them how committed they are to a relationship.
1590
First Known Use of equivocate
1590
Synonym Discussion of equivocate
EQUIVOCATE Defined for English Language Learners
equivocate
playDefinition of equivocate for English Language Learners
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: to use unclear language especially to deceive or mislead someone
Learn More about equivocate
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See words that rhyme with equivocate Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for equivocate Spanish Central: Translation of equivocate Nglish: Translation of equivocate for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of equivocate for Arabic speakers
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