ambiguous sentences

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ambiguous sentences" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing sentences that have multiple interpretations or meanings. Example: "The phrase 'I saw the man with the telescope' is an example of an ambiguous sentence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

He also took brain scans of healthy physicians, who were presented with the ambiguous sentences while under general anesthesia.

The New Yorker

When you play ambiguous sentences, areas in the inferior frontal lobe and in the posterior temporal lobe become activated, and these areas are very important for speech comprehension.

The New Yorker

A good reader may be good at following the leaps and bounds of your thinking but is also, always, reading literally, alive to the misdirection of ambiguous sentences.

The New York Times

In the study, participants either with or without depression were shown a series of ambiguous sentences on a computer screen (for example, "you get a new job").

The Guardian

Your brain somehow appreciates that there are two meanings to a word like 'shell.' " Owen eventually identified two vegetative patients whose brains showed the same activity in response to ambiguous sentences as the brains of healthy volunteers.

The New Yorker

Though it has its very fine moments, Sebold's novel misses the moral complexity and compellingness of Lucky, which dealt with its dysfunctions, addictions, helpless blindnesses and hypocrisies with a raw honesty, containing bladedly ambiguous sentences like: "I knew now that I had been raped I should try to look good for my parents".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

In diagnosing the ambiguity, Albert recognises that (S) implies a simpler, equally ambiguous sentence, which we might formulate as follows: (SP) Socrates did not twice see Plato.

SEP

Thus, our best theory may determine an ambiguity that is never actually expressed by a sincere utterance of the ambiguous sentence.

SEP

Under such circumstances, "an ambiguous sentence is a triumph," Mr. Nadas noted.

The New York Times - Books

If you're a member of the crew team, you're far more likely to select "row" instead of "roe" from an ambiguous sentence.

The New Yorker

This article was amended on 1 January 2013, rewording a previously ambiguous sentence that could have been taken to imply that rickets and scurvy were communicable diseases.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, aim for precision and clarity to avoid "ambiguous sentences". Use specific language and check for potential misinterpretations.

Common error

Ensure that sentences are clear not only in isolation but also within the broader context. A sentence that seems unambiguous on its own might become "ambiguous" when combined with surrounding text.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ambiguous sentences" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where 'ambiguous' serves as an adjective modifying the noun 'sentences'. This describes a specific characteristic of sentences. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

35%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ambiguous sentences" correctly identifies sentences that can be interpreted in multiple ways due to their structure or wording. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly used across various fields, including science, news, and general writing, denoting its versatility and relevance in discussions about language clarity. To enhance writing, aim for precision and consider the contextual implications to avoid inadvertently creating "ambiguous sentences". Recognizing and addressing the causes of ambiguity—such as unclear pronoun references or misplaced modifiers—is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sentences with multiple interpretations

Directly states the characteristic of having more than one possible meaning.

unclear statements

Focuses on the lack of clarity in the statements, rather than the multiple interpretations.

sentences lacking clarity

Highlights the absence of clear and unambiguous meaning.

vague expressions

Emphasizes the lack of specificity in the expressions, implying a difficulty in precise understanding.

imprecise wording

Focuses on the lack of precision in the choice of words, leading to ambiguity.

equivocal phrases

Highlights the possibility of differing interpretations, suggesting a deliberate attempt to be noncommittal.

polysemous sentences

Specifically refers to sentences with multiple meanings arising from the same word or phrase.

doubtful constructions

Highlights the uncertainty and questionable nature of the sentence structure.

indefinite remarks

Focuses on the lack of defined meaning in the remarks, suggesting a broad and unspecific nature.

open to interpretation clauses

Emphasizes that the clauses within the sentence can be understood in various ways.

FAQs

How to recognize "ambiguous sentences"?

An "ambiguous sentence" is one that can be interpreted in multiple ways due to its structure or wording. Look for sentences where the meaning is not immediately clear or could reasonably be understood differently by different people.

What are some common causes of "ambiguous sentences"?

Common causes include unclear pronoun references, misplaced modifiers, and vague language. Revising these aspects can greatly improve clarity.

What can I say instead of "ambiguous sentences"?

You can use alternatives like "unclear statements", "vague expressions", or "sentences with multiple interpretations" depending on the context.

Why is it important to avoid "ambiguous sentences" in writing?

Avoiding "ambiguous sentences" ensures that your message is conveyed accurately and without confusion. Clarity enhances readability and prevents miscommunication. Use "precise wording" and structure to prevent misinterpretations.