ambiguous response

USAGE SUMMARY

"ambiguous response" is correct and usable in written English.
It refers to an answer or statement that is unclear or open to interpretation. For example, "When asked whether she would take a job in a new city, she gave an ambiguous response."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

While this confirms the previous report of the unidimensional nature of the GHQ-12, it suggests that the proposed mechanism of ambiguous response choices for the negatively phrased items is not fully responsible for the response bias.

BMC Public Health

An ambiguous response.

The Guardian

"When they then get an ambiguous response from the police, it undermines their confidence about what has happened.

The Guardian

On Thursday, however, the de Blasio campaign offered an ambiguous response to questions about whether he would press the appeal.

The New York Times

Kaine also sidestepped backing the president, giving an ambiguous response through a spokesman: "Governor Kaine believes in equal treatment under the law.

The Guardian

Created in 1997, it is Cerny's ambiguous response to the question of what role the intellectual would play in the new millennium; an absorbing sight regularly missed by tourists watching their footing on the cobbles.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Such ambiguous responses do little to dampen the speculative fires, of course.

The New York Times

The remaining firms either declined to comment, did not return phone and e-mail messages, or provided ambiguous responses.

The Washington Post

Ambiguous responses indicated effects of natural inputs of organic matter rather than environmental quality associated to sewage.

Marine Pollution Bulletin

While this supports ecological restoration goals, it also conflicts with ambiguous responses by urbanites to the aesthetics of 'wild' and 'messy' nature in the city.

Landscape and Urban Planning

They said they were met with obfuscation and ambiguous responses, in part because Apple itself may not have made up its mind yet about exactly what its streaming service will look like.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ambiguous response", ensure the context makes it clear who gave the response and to what it was a response. This avoids further ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid simply stating a response was "ambiguous". Explain why it was ambiguous or what different interpretations are possible. For example, instead of "The answer was ambiguous", say "The answer was ambiguous, as it could be interpreted as either agreement or disagreement."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ambiguous response" functions as a noun phrase, where 'ambiguous' modifies 'response'. It describes a reply that is open to multiple interpretations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and common.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

40%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ambiguous response" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a reply that lacks clarity or is open to multiple interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in diverse contexts, including news, science, and general communication. While the phrase is versatile, it's crucial to provide context on the nature of the ambiguity. Related phrases like "unclear answer" or "evasive answer" offer nuanced alternatives. The frequency analysis reveals its prevalence in news and scientific sources, highlighting its importance in both reporting and research. By following the best practices and avoiding common errors, you can effectively use "ambiguous response" to convey the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unclear answer

Emphasizes the lack of clarity in the reply.

vague reply

Highlights the lack of precision in the answer.

evasive answer

Focuses on the attempt to avoid a direct response.

equivocal statement

Stresses the possibility of multiple interpretations.

indefinite answer

Highlights the lack of specific detail.

noncommittal reaction

Focuses on the lack of commitment conveyed.

uncertain reply

Highlights the doubt or hesitation in the response.

indirect response

Emphasizes the roundabout nature of the answer.

guarded answer

Stresses the caution and lack of openness in the response.

opaque communication

Highlights the difficulty in understanding the message.

FAQs

How can I use "ambiguous response" in a sentence?

You can use "ambiguous response" to describe a reply that is unclear or open to multiple interpretations. For example, "The politician gave an "ambiguous response" when asked about the new policy."

What's the difference between "ambiguous response" and "vague reply"?

"Ambiguous response" suggests the reply can be understood in more than one way, while "vague reply" indicates a lack of clarity or detail. Both suggest a lack of clear communication, but the nature of the lack differs.

Which is correct, "ambiguous response" or "ambiguous answer"?

Both "ambiguous response" and "ambiguous answer" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice often depends on personal preference or the specific context.

What can I say instead of "ambiguous response"?

You can use alternatives like "unclear answer", "evasive answer", or "equivocal statement" depending on the context.