allows for ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "allows for ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations, statements, or texts that permit multiple interpretations or meanings. Example: "The author's use of vague language allows for ambiguity, inviting readers to draw their own conclusions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Camus allows for ambiguity.

The Guardian - Books

When combined with the narrow lane pseudorange, Eq. (12) and the wide lane phase, Eq. (13) allows for ambiguity resolution.

The Journal of Global Positioning Systems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

A tetraploid input file was constructed by using the recessive allele option65 and ploidy set to four to allow for ambiguity in partial polyploid heterozygotes66.

Nature

The era of instant gratification has led to a decrease in what therapists call "frustration tolerance". This is how we handle upsetting situations, allow for ambiguity and learn to navigate the normal life circumstances of breakups, bad grades and layoffs.

The Washington Post

She demonstrates how anthropomorphized animals are used to illustrate the opposition between individual and collective, and how film-specific techniques work to create characters, to build complexity, and to allow for ambiguity.

Johns Hopkins University

Neither is it the sort of challenging stare that presupposes and defies our labeling her as "victim" (either would cheapen the image, in that they demand specific responses rather than allow for ambiguity and therefore thoughtfulness).

Huffington Post

In the study of complex human phenomena, qualitative interviews allow for ambiguity [ 15].

BMC Family Practice

Haplo.glm applies a haplotype-trait association test based on a general linear model framework using maximum likelihood estimates for haplotype effects, allowing for ambiguity of haplotype phase [ 33].

Breast Cancer Research

To allow for ambiguity in annotation, if the second or third most common intergenic distance is within 1 of the mode, these gene-pairs are included in the conservation calculation.

eLife

Since currently available mapping algorithms do not allow for ambiguity codes in the reference sequence, masking was accomplished by changing the nucleotide at each SNP position to a third allele that is not known to segregate in humans (e.g. changing A→T in the reference sequence at the position of an A/G SNP).

Bioinformatics

When generating the consensus fasta sequences we allowed for ambiguities (e.g. IUPAC codes W, R, etc).

BMC Genomics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "allows for ambiguity", ensure the context clarifies whether this ambiguity is intentional and beneficial or unintentional and problematic.

Common error

Avoid generically stating something "allows for ambiguity" without specifying what kind of ambiguity and its impact. Be specific about the source and nature of the ambiguity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "allows for ambiguity" functions as a verbal phrase that indicates permission or capacity for multiple interpretations. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for describing situations where a lack of definiteness is present.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Academia

33%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "allows for ambiguity" is a grammatically sound and usable expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not exceedingly common, it aptly describes situations or statements open to multiple interpretations. Predominantly found in news, scientific, and academic contexts, "allows for ambiguity" suggests a neutral to formal register. When employing this phrase, consider whether the ambiguity is deliberate and constructive or unintended and problematic. Related alternatives include "permits multiple interpretations" and "leaves room for interpretation". Despite the limited number of direct examples, the phrase's consistent usage across reputable sources supports its validity and utility in academic and professional writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permits multiple interpretations

Highlights the allowance of various understandings.

accommodates vagueness

Focuses on the capacity to include uncertainty.

leaves room for interpretation

Emphasizes the space available for individual understanding.

invites diverse readings

Stresses the encouragement of varied perspectives.

allows for open-endedness

Focuses on the lack of a fixed or definite conclusion.

permits a degree of uncertainty

Highlights the tolerance of inexactness.

facilitates interpretive flexibility

Emphasizes the ease with which interpretation can adapt.

supports varied understandings

Focuses on enabling different interpretations.

creates space for subjectivity

Highlights the creation of personal viewpoints.

lends itself to multiple meanings

Emphasizes how the subject can have different meanings.

FAQs

How can I use "allows for ambiguity" in a sentence?

Use "allows for ambiguity" to describe situations, statements, or texts that permit multiple interpretations. For example, "The vague wording of the contract "allows for ambiguity", potentially leading to disputes."

What are some alternatives to saying "allows for ambiguity"?

Alternatives include "permits multiple interpretations", "leaves room for interpretation", or "accommodates vagueness", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "allow for ambiguity" or to be completely clear?

Whether it's better to "allow for ambiguity" or be completely clear depends on the context. Sometimes, ambiguity can foster creativity or negotiation. Other times, clarity is essential to prevent misunderstandings.

What's the effect of using language that "allows for ambiguity"?

Language that "allows for ambiguity" can lead to varied understandings, which can be both a strength (e.g., in poetry) and a weakness (e.g., in legal documents). It may invite interpretation or create confusion depending on the audience and purpose.