an equivocal answer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an equivocal answer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a response that is ambiguous or unclear, often leaving room for multiple interpretations. Example: "When asked about his plans for the future, he gave an equivocal answer that left everyone guessing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

If you don't get one, or get an equivocal answer, start looking elsewhere.

The Guardian - Money

Such an equivocal answer would be anathema to the denizens of another suburban rebel subculture examined at the Video Festival.

The New York Times

Ms. Greuel gave an equivocal answer that produced a rustle of laughter among a few in the audience.

The New York Times

Asked whether he worries that his work will induce others to join Isis, he gave an equivocal answer.

Independent

"He'd be like, 'You like niggers?' And I'd be like, 'I don't know — I just like the fuckin' music.' " Then, reconsidering, he said he might actually have offered an equivocal answer: "Maybe".

The New Yorker

Trump was berating Cruz for giving an equivocal answer during the debate on Saturday, when multiple candidates were pressed on whether waterboarding constituted torture and whether any of them would bring it back.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

When I asked him outright, he gave an unusually equivocal answer: "Mmmmmmm.

The Guardian - Music

Asked whether the Serbian authorities were really looking for Mr. Mladic, the chief prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, Serge Brammertz, gave an equivocal response: "It is difficult for me to answer this question".

The New York Times

Put the point to Steve Russell and he gives a curiously equivocal answer: 'It depends on your definition of Boots the Chemists.' Now Russell of all people should know what you and I mean by Boots the Chemists.

The Guardian - Business

Hence it was disappointing and harmful to U.S. interests when Secretary Kerry answered a question about the need for the Egyptian government to "show greater respect for human rights" with an equivocal response, saying that "it's a very difficult choice for Egypt because there is evidence of engagement in violence by certain people and certain leaders".

Huffington Post

50% improvement was considered an equivocal response.

Cough

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "an equivocal answer", ensure that the context clearly indicates why the answer is unclear or open to interpretation. Providing additional details can enhance understanding and avoid ambiguity about the ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "an equivocal answer" always indicates deception or evasion. Sometimes, it reflects genuine uncertainty or a desire to avoid oversimplification of a complex issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an equivocal answer" functions as a noun phrase, where "equivocal" modifies "answer". As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable. It commonly serves to describe the nature of a response.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an equivocal answer" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a response lacking clarity or directness. According to Ludwig, it's most frequently found in News & Media, Science, and Academic contexts. While synonyms like "an ambiguous response" or "a vague reply" exist, "an equivocal answer" specifically highlights the uncertain or non-committal nature of the information shared. Using this phrase effectively involves recognizing the intent behind the answer and ensuring the context clarifies the reason for its ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an ambiguous response

Replaces "equivocal" with "ambiguous", focusing on the multiple possible interpretations of the response.

a vague reply

Substitutes "equivocal" with "vague", emphasizing the lack of clarity and precision in the answer.

an uncertain reply

Highlights the lack of certainty in the answer.

an indefinite answer

Similar to "vague", but stresses the lack of specific detail or defined boundaries in the response.

a non-committal statement

Replaces the entire phrase, highlighting the lack of a firm position or decision in the response.

an evasive response

Focuses on the intent to avoid directly addressing the question, suggesting a deliberate lack of clarity.

a qualified response

Indicates that the answer is not absolute and depends on certain conditions or limitations.

a hedging statement

Emphasizes the use of cautious and limiting language to avoid a definite commitment.

a tentative response

Highlights the uncertainty and lack of confidence behind the answer, suggesting it may be subject to change.

a circumspect answer

Emphasizes caution and unwillingness to provide a straight forward response.

FAQs

How can I use "an equivocal answer" in a sentence?

You can use "an equivocal answer" to describe a response that is not clear or direct. For example: "When asked about the new policy, the manager gave "an equivocal answer", leaving employees unsure of its implications."

What are some alternatives to "an equivocal answer"?

Alternatives to "an equivocal answer" include "an ambiguous response", "a vague reply", or "a non-committal statement". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to give "an equivocal answer" or a direct one?

Whether to give "an equivocal answer" or a direct one depends on the situation. A direct answer is usually preferable for clarity, but "an equivocal answer" might be necessary when the truth is uncertain, complex, or potentially harmful.

What does it mean when someone gives "an equivocal answer"?

When someone gives "an equivocal answer", it typically means their response is not straightforward or clear. This might be because they are uncertain, trying to avoid commitment, or being intentionally evasive.