Ambiguous
easyNegative toneam-BIG-yoo-us
adjective
Definition
Open to more than one interpretation; unclear
Memory hook
AMBI-guous: AMBI means both sides -- the meaning goes BOTH ways, so it's unclear.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The contract contained several ambiguous clauses.”
“His ambiguous response left us wondering what he really meant.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The contract contained several ______ clauses.”
Show answer
ambiguous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Ambiguous is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "equivocal" or "vague" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "unambiguous".
Related GRE Words
hazy
Vague, indistinct, or confused; lacking clarity
concise
Giving a lot of information clearly and in few words; brief but comprehensive
nebulous
In the form of a cloud; vague or ill-defined
obscure
Not discovered or known about; uncertain
unambiguous
Not open to more than one interpretation; clear
perspicuous
Clearly expressed and easily understood; lucid
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