Basic Details
Word: Equivocal
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Having more than one possible meaning; unclear or ambiguous.
Synonyms: Ambiguous, unclear, vague, uncertain
Antonyms: Clear, definite, certain
Idioms and Phrases
- Draw an equivocal line: To create a boundary that is not clear or definitive. Example: "The teachers rules drew an equivocal line between acceptable and unacceptable behaviour."
- Equivocal answer: A response that does not provide clear information. Example: "When asked about the change in plans, he gave an equivocal answer, leaving everyone confused."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The politician's equivocal statements on the issue made it hard for the public to understand his true position.
Example 2: The message on the poster was equivocal; it could be interpreted in several different ways.
Example 3: She provided an equivocal response when asked about her plans, which made her friends suspicious.
Fun Fact
The word equivocal comes from the Latin word aequivocus, meaning "of the same voice," which reflects its nature of having multiple interpretations or meanings.
Famous Quote
"The greatest tragedy in communication is the illusion that it has been accomplished." - George Bernard Shaw, highlighting the importance of clarity over equivocal statements.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "equivocal" mean?
a) Clear and certain
b) Having more than one possible meaning
c) Obvious and straightforward
d) Easy to understand
Answer: b) Having more than one possible meaning
2. Which of these is a synonym of "equivocal"?
a) Vague
b) Transparent
c) Obvious
d) Straightforward
Answer: a) Vague
3. Which word is an antonym of "equivocal"?
a) Unclear
b) Definite
c) Ambiguous
d) Uncertain
Answer: b) Definite
4. Which sentence uses "equivocal" correctly?
a) Her equivocal answer confused everyone at the meeting.
b) The equivocal sun shone brightly in the sky.
c) He was equivocal when he finished his homework.
d) The dog was equivocal when it barked.
Answer: a) Her equivocal answer confused everyone at the meeting.
5. Which idiom relates to the uncertainty of "equivocal"?
a) Draw an equivocal line
b) The ball is in your court
c) A penny for your thoughts
d) Cat out of the bag
Answer: a) Draw an equivocal line
