WordGarden.iounambiguous
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnæmbˈɪɡjuːəs/
US
- /ˌənæmˈbɪɡjəwəs/
Meanings
Adjective
clear and open to only one interpretation or conclusion
in grammar, logic, or computing, having only one valid interpretation or parse
Beyond the definition
Imagine trying to give directions – if they're unambiguous, there's absolutely no room for confusion. You don't say "Turn somewhere near the big tree," you say, "Turn right at the oak tree with the red ribbon." That's unambiguous! It means something is expressed or understood in a way that leaves no doubt about its meaning. Think of it as the opposite of vague or unclear. A contract needs to be unambiguous so everyone knows exactly what they're agreeing to. If a sign says "No Trespassing," that's meant to be an unambiguous message!
The word unambiguous describes something that is perfectly clear and definite, leaving no room for multiple interpretations or misunderstandings. It comes from combining "un-" (meaning not) with "ambiguous" (meaning open to more than one meaning). So, essentially, it means "not ambiguous."
Think of a detective solving a case – they're looking for unambiguous evidence, proof that points directly to the culprit without any wiggle room. Or consider legal documents; lawyers strive for unambiguous language to prevent disputes. A simple "yes" or "no" is usually an unambiguous answer.
However, even seemingly straightforward things can be misinterpreted if not presented unambiguously. For example, a sarcastic comment might sound positive on the surface but have a negative meaning – it's therefore not unambiguous. In scientific research, results are considered more reliable when they're unambiguous and repeatable.
So, whenever you want to ensure your message is understood exactly as intended, strive for clarity and precision—aim for something unambiguous. It's about removing all doubt and leaving no room for misinterpretation.
Examples
- 1
Medicine instructions
The instructions on the medicine bottle were short and unambiguous.
- 2
Direct answer
Her answer was unambiguous: she wasn't interested in the job.
- 3
Public sign
The sign sends an unambiguous message that parking here is not allowed.
- 4
Policy statement
The minister was unambiguous about the need for stricter safety rules.
- Patternunambiguous about + subject
making your position very clear on that subject
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Legal contract
The court ruled that the contract was unambiguous, so both sides had to follow its exact wording.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- clear-cut
- definite
- categorical
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- unambiguous evidence
- unambiguous terms
- unambiguous signal
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unambiguousadjective