Definitions

equivocal

[ih-kwiv-uh-kuhl] / ɪˈkwɪv ə kəl /

ADJECTIVE

doubtful, uncertain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ambiguous ambivalent dubious evasive muddled puzzling unclear vague

WEAK

amphibological borderline clear as mud clouded disreputable fishy fuzzy hazy indefinite indeterminate indistinct misleading muzzy oblique obscure open problematic questionable suspect suspicious tenebrous undecided unexplicit unintelligible with mixed feelings

Antonyms

STRONGEST

certain clear definite sure

WEAK

determined obvious plain unequivocal unquestionable

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.

But as she talked of neighborhoods “full of trees and shade ... and people and good food,” she seemed low-key and equivocal.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

Robert Kennedy was equivocal on the phone about intervening.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 31, 2026

And while he has issued public apologies, Goecke has remained more defiant than contrite, and disturbingly equivocal: He has both admitted to overreacting and also tried to justify his behavior.

From New York Times • May 20, 2024

The experts I spoke with were oppositely equivocal, despite acknowledging the apparent quality control issues at Boeing.

From Slate • Feb. 2, 2024

Supreme Court, which in 1969 issued an equivocal ruling.

From "The Best of Enemies" by Osha Gray Davidson

Vocabulary lists containing equivocal

300 Most Difficult "SAT" Words

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

1984

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Othello

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!