Equivocate
hardNegative toneih-KWIV-uh-kayt
verb
Definition
To use ambiguous language to avoid committing to a position; to be deliberately vague
Memory hook
EQUI-VOCATE: giving EQUAL VOICE to both sides — deliberately ambiguous to mislead.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Politicians often equivocate when asked about controversial topics.”
“Stop equivocating and give me a straight answer.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Politicians often ______ when asked about controversial topics.”
Show answer
equivocate
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Equivocate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "prevaricate" or "hedge" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "commit".
Related GRE Words
prevaricate
To speak or act evasively; to avoid telling the truth
acrimonious
Bitter and sharp in language or tone; caustic
aphoristic
Containing or characterized by aphorisms; concise and memorable
artifice
Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially to deceive; trickery
aver
to state or assert to be true confidently
bombastic
High-sounding but with little meaning; inflated or pretentious language
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