fostered ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fostered ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations, language, or actions that intentionally create uncertainty or vagueness. Example: "The author's use of vague language fostered ambiguity, leaving readers to interpret the meaning in their own way."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Although evidence of functionality of specific lncRNAs continues to accumulate, conflicting, confusing, and overlapping terminology has fostered ambiguity and lack of clarity in the field in general.

Trends in Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Words like "large," "significant," and "damaging," foster the ambiguity, while verbal descriptors of likelihood (e.g. "very likely," "likely," "unlikely") are not definite, creating variability in interpretation.

Columbia University

However, Jessie J didn't foster a studied ambiguity about her sexual preferences but instead openly came out as bisexual.

The Guardian - Opinion

Unsurprisingly, secular spaces have ultimately fostered a more accommodating environment for the ambiguity and evolution of distinct spiritual views.

HuffPost

Optimally, it will foster an organizational culture thriving on ambiguity outsmarting stability-seeking competitors.

Harvard Business Review

The ambiguity of natural language may foster such confusion, given examples like 'The present king of France is bald or not'.

SEP

A discussion process between two coders was set up to foster the understanding of the data and to solve ambiguities in establishing themes [ 17, 18].

BMC Health Services Research

We need to foster and empower our learners' critical thinking, the ability to thrive through ambiguity, and the confidence to guide their own futures.

Forbes

The humanities inculcate a tolerance for ambiguity, provide a basis for the reconciliation of competing values, and foster the ability to discern the narrative thread in the setting of illness.

BMC Medical Education

On the other hand, the ambiguity offered by peer role-play suggests a methodological advantage in fostering an appreciation of patient concerns in addition to the development of skills.

BMC Medical Education

In addition to the role of the arts in fostering creative thinking, the arts give us a venue for dealing with the complexities and ambiguities of human existence, helping to build a bridge between diverse cultures and experiences.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "fostered ambiguity" when you want to emphasize the intentional creation or encouragement of uncertainty, allowing for multiple interpretations. Be mindful of the potential for miscommunication, and ensure the context supports the intended ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "fostered ambiguity" in contexts where clarity and precision are paramount, such as technical documentation or legal contracts. In such cases, strive for unambiguous language to prevent misinterpretations and ensure clear understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fostered ambiguity" functions as a verb phrase where 'fostered' indicates the action of promoting or encouraging, and 'ambiguity' is the direct object, referring to the state of being open to more than one interpretation. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is correctly used in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fostered ambiguity" is grammatically correct and used to describe the intentional creation or encouragement of uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in English. It is commonly found in academic, scientific, and news contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, consider the potential for miscommunication and ensure that the context supports the intended ambiguity. Alternatives like "created uncertainty" or "encouraged vagueness" may be suitable depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

created uncertainty

Focuses on the direct creation of a state of uncertainty, rather than just encouraging it.

encouraged vagueness

Highlights the promotion of a lack of clarity, similar to fostering ambiguity.

cultivated obscurity

Emphasizes a more deliberate and intentional development of something unclear.

generated uncertainty

Focuses on the production of a state of uncertainty.

promoted indistinctness

Highlights the promotion of something lacking clear definition or boundaries.

bred uncertainty

Implies a natural or consequential development of uncertainty.

induced equivocation

Highlights the act of causing deliberate ambiguity in speech.

nurtured ambivalence

Emphasizes the development of conflicting feelings or ideas.

catalyzed uncertainty

Highlights the acceleration or initiation of a state of uncertainty.

sparked confusion

Focuses on the initiation of a state of mental disarray.

FAQs

How can I use "fostered ambiguity" in a sentence?

You can use "fostered ambiguity" to describe situations where uncertainty or multiple interpretations are intentionally created or encouraged. For example: "The author's deliberate use of symbolism "fostered ambiguity", inviting readers to contemplate various meanings."

What are some alternatives to "fostered ambiguity"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "created uncertainty", "encouraged vagueness", or "cultivated obscurity" to express a similar idea. Each alternative has slightly different connotations, so choose the one that best fits your intended meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "fostered ambiguity" in formal writing?

Yes, "fostered ambiguity" can be appropriate in formal writing, especially when discussing literary analysis, strategic communication, or philosophical concepts where intentional uncertainty plays a role. However, ensure that the context warrants such usage and that the ambiguity serves a purpose.

What is the difference between "fostered ambiguity" and "created confusion"?

"Fostered ambiguity" implies a more intentional and sometimes strategic creation of uncertainty, whereas "created confusion" suggests unintentional or undesirable bewilderment. Ambiguity can be a tool for prompting thought or interpretation, while confusion typically hinders understanding.