ambiguity

noun

ˌam-bə-ˈgyü-ə-tē How to pronounce ambiguity (audio)
Definition of ambiguitynext
as in ambiguousness
the quality or state of having a veiled or uncertain meaning the ambiguity of the clairvoyant's messages from the deceased allowed the grieving relatives to interpret them however they wished

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ambiguity Public support and warning A few county residents came forward to speak out in support of the moratorium but urged the county to move forward with caution to prevent any ambiguity. — Abigail Hasebroock, Sun Sentinel, 27 Aug. 2026 That ambiguity is echoed in Banks’ score, which takes on the tone of a lament and a celebration, frustration and hope, struggle and liberation, the quest for transcendence in the face of the challenges posed by daunting inequities. — George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 23 Aug. 2026 When transiting this Earth sign (and its sign of rulership), practical and calculated precision takes precedence over ambiguity and embellishment as a result of passion. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 22 Aug. 2026 Nevertheless, across multiple administrations, the United States retained deliberate ambiguity on this front. — Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ambiguity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ambiguity
  1. mysteriousness
  2. uncertainty
Noun
  • That intrigue and mysteriousness still rest in the canyon walls today.
    — Madison Dapcevich, Outside, 13 Sep. 2025
Definition of mysteriousness
Noun
  • Future Vikings Ring of Honor member Harrison Smith’s status remains up in the air, but the team’s uncertainty at the position suggests his return would be welcome.
    — Alec Lewis, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
  • The uncertainty has left many California homeowners at war with their insurers.
    — Evan Bush, NBC news, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of uncertainty

Browse Nearby Words

ambients
ambiguity
ambiguous
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Cite this Entry

“Ambiguity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ambiguity. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on ambiguity

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about ambiguity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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