Definitions

ambiguity

[am-bi-gyoo-i-tee] / ˌæm bɪˈgyu ɪ ti /

NOUN

uncertainty of meaning

Synonyms

STRONGEST

doubt uncertainty vagueness

STRONG

anagram doubtfulness dubiety dubiousness enigma equivocation incertitude inconclusiveness indefiniteness indeterminateness obscurity polysemy puzzle tergiversation unclearness

WEAK

double meaning double-entendre equivocacy equivocality polysemousness

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certainty

WEAK

clarity clearness definiteness explicitness lucidity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Ambiguity also reduces the risk of legal or diplomatic complaints that might arise from clear violations of international trade rules.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 30, 2025

Ambiguity over the law could also extend to patients themselves, who may worry about whether the procedure remains available or legal.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2024

Ambiguity, especially when force is involved, is not something military personnel are comfortable with, he said.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 26, 2023

Ambiguity, strategically cultivated, encourages reasonable doubt, no matter how unreasonable, to grow.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 28, 2023

Ambiguity seems to be an essential, indispensable element for the transfer of information from one place to another by words, where matters of real importance are concerned.

From "The Lives of a Cell" by Lewis Thomas

Vocabulary lists containing ambiguity

Literary Devices & Figures of Speech - Introductory

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30 GRE Words Beginning with "A"

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Romeo and Juliet

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