WordGarden.io
Back to search

unambiguous

C2
adjective

Pronunciation

UK

  • /ʌnæmbˈɪɡjuːəs/

US

  • /ˌənæmˈbɪɡjəwəs/

Description

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!

Examples

  1. 1

    Medicine instructions

    The instructions on the medicine bottle were short and unambiguous.

  2. 2

    Direct answer

    Her answer was unambiguous: she wasn't interested in the job.

  3. 3

    Public sign

    The sign sends an unambiguous message that parking here is not allowed.

  4. 4

    Policy statement

    The minister was unambiguous about the need for stricter safety rules.

    • Pattern

      unambiguous about + subject

      making your position very clear on that subject

  5. 5

    Legal contract

    The court ruled that the contract was unambiguous, so both sides had to follow its exact wording.

Forms and spellings

1 form open this card.

Main spelling

  • unambiguousadjective