flicker of ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flicker of ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a momentary or slight uncertainty in meaning or interpretation. Example: "In her speech, there was a flicker of ambiguity that left the audience questioning her true intentions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The effect was unsettling: a flicker of ambiguity between fact and fiction.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Become a connoisseur of ambiguity.

The New York Times

"It's tolerance of ambiguity".

The New York Times

Beware the perils of ambiguity.

The New York Times

One source of ambiguity relates to expenses.

The New York Times

Maybe we share a love of ambiguity.

The New York Times

The photo was a record of ambiguity".

The New York Times

The system seems shorn of ambiguity.

The New York Times

NOBODY could accuse Sergei Glazyev of ambiguity.

The Economist

The human mind is full of ambiguity.

The Guardian

He also proved a master of ambiguity.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flicker of ambiguity" to describe a brief or subtle moment of uncertainty in a situation or statement. It's particularly effective when highlighting a contrast between clarity and confusion.

Common error

Avoid using "flicker of ambiguity" when you need to communicate a message with absolute precision. In legal documents or scientific reports, strive for clarity and avoid any ambiguity, even a slight "flicker".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flicker of ambiguity" functions as a noun phrase, specifically a compound noun phrase, that describes a brief or subtle moment of uncertainty or lack of clarity. As Ludwig AI states, it can be used to describe a momentary or slight uncertainty in meaning or interpretation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flicker of ambiguity" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon way to describe a brief or subtle moment of uncertainty or lack of clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it serves to highlight a transient nuance that introduces doubt. When writing, use it to pinpoint fleeting instances of uncertainty, but avoid it in contexts demanding absolute precision. Alternatives such as "hint of uncertainty" or "glimmer of doubt" may be suitable depending on the specific shade of meaning you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

trace of ambiguity

Similar to flicker, it suggests a small amount of ambiguity.

nuance of ambiguity

Focuses on the subtle quality of being open to more than one interpretation.

hint of uncertainty

Focuses on the subtle indication of doubt rather than the lack of clarity itself.

glimmer of doubt

Emphasizes the presence of doubt, even if faint.

shade of vagueness

Highlights the lack of precision and definition.

touch of indistinctness

Conveys a slight lack of clarity or definition.

whisper of obscurity

Implies that something is difficult to understand due to a lack of clarity.

suggestion of uncertainty

Focuses on the indirect indication of a lack of certainty.

element of doubt

Highlights the presence of doubt as a component of something.

degree of uncertainty

Indicates a specific measure or level of uncertainty.

FAQs

How can I use "flicker of ambiguity" in a sentence?

You can use "flicker of ambiguity" to describe a momentary or slight uncertainty in meaning or interpretation. For example: "In her speech, there was a "flicker of ambiguity" that left the audience questioning her true intentions."

What are some alternatives to "flicker of ambiguity"?

You can use alternatives like "hint of uncertainty", "glimmer of doubt", or "shade of vagueness" depending on the context.

Is "flicker of ambiguity" formal or informal?

"Flicker of ambiguity" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more common in writing where a nuanced description is appropriate. Consider the audience and the overall tone of your writing.

How does "flicker of ambiguity" differ from "sense of ambiguity"?

"Flicker of ambiguity" suggests a brief or passing moment of uncertainty, while "sense of ambiguity" implies a more sustained or pervasive feeling of being unclear. The former is fleeting, the latter is more enduring.