Created ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Created ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations, statements, or actions that lead to confusion or uncertainty in meaning. Example: "The author's choice of words created ambiguity, leaving readers unsure of the character's true intentions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

But Mr. Rosenthal decided that the more troublesome result of the proctors' presence was that it created ambiguity around cheating.

The New York Times

Lawyers say this difference has created ambiguity and left financial professionals unsure about what they are able to share with clients.

The New York Times

The SEC's statements have created ambiguity (and jittery nerves!) among U.S. token sellers.

Forbes

However, the generalization of questions created ambiguity, which resulted in poor usability.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

But the councils said a suggestion that the ultimate target could be as few as six has created ambiguity.

BBC

Analysis of the answers revealed that the generalization of question created ambiguity and answer lengths contained large variations.

Journal of Internet Services and Applications

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Created Jerry Lester Show.

The New York Times

Created by Lauren Iungerich.

The New York Times - Arts

Created, and missed.

The New York Times - Sports

Created by Loren Bouchard.

The New York Times - Arts

Created by the SITI Company.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Created ambiguity" when you want to emphasize that a specific action or decision directly led to a state of uncertainty or confusion. It's particularly effective when highlighting the unintended consequences of a choice.

Common error

Avoid using "Created ambiguity" as a crutch for unclear writing. Ensure that the context clearly explains what action or decision led to the ambiguity and how it impacts the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Created ambiguity" functions as a verbal phrase, where 'created' acts as a transitive verb taking 'ambiguity' as its direct object. Ludwig confirms that this usage adheres to standard English grammar. The phrase highlights the action of bringing about a state of uncertainty or lack of clarity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Wiki

7%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Created ambiguity" is a grammatically sound and generally accepted way to describe how something led to a state of uncertainty or confusion. As Ludwig examples show, this phrase finds use in various contexts, with the most prevalent ones being news, science, and formal business environments. Although Ludwig's analysis indicates that overuse of vague language should be avoided, this phrase is useful when wanting to emphasize that an action led to a state of uncertainty.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Generated uncertainty

Focuses on the feeling of not being sure about something. A bit stronger than "created ambiguity" in terms of the degree of lack of clarity.

Produced confusion

Emphasizes the state of being bewildered or unclear. It's more active and direct than "created ambiguity".

Resulted in uncertainty

Focuses on uncertainty as a consequence. More neutral and direct than "created ambiguity".

Induced lack of clarity

Highlights the act of causing something to be unclear. More clinical and formal than "created ambiguity".

Gave rise to vagueness

Highlights the lack of clear details or specifications. More formal than "created ambiguity".

Spawned confusion

Suggests a rapid and uncontrolled generation of confusion. Stronger and more dramatic than "created ambiguity".

Fostered obscurity

Stresses the difficulty in understanding or perceiving something. More formal and literary than "created ambiguity".

Instigated haziness

Implies a deliberate or unintentional start of a vague situation. More nuanced than "created ambiguity".

Brought about indistinctness

Emphasizes the lack of sharp definition. More formal and less common than "created ambiguity".

Led to equivocation

Emphasizes the use of ambiguous language to conceal the truth. More specific and negative than "created ambiguity".

FAQs

How can I use "Created ambiguity" in a sentence?

You can use "Created ambiguity" to describe situations where a particular action or statement led to confusion or uncertainty. For example: "The vague wording in the contract "created ambiguity" about payment terms."

What are some alternatives to "Created ambiguity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "generated uncertainty", "produced confusion", or "gave rise to vagueness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. See the "related phrases" section for more options.

Is "Created ambiguity" grammatically correct?

Yes, "Created ambiguity" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English grammar rules, as confirmed by Ludwig.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "Created ambiguity"?

It is appropriate in contexts where you need to highlight how a specific action resulted in a lack of clarity or understanding. You'll find it used in the news, in scientific papers, and in business communication.