in a state of ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in a state of ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition where things are unclear or open to multiple interpretations. Example: "The project's objectives were left in a state of ambiguity, leading to confusion among the team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Oil wealth allowed the Saudis to live suspended in a state of creative ambiguity.

The New York Times

This can provide a clue as to why anticommunism, which wields unsurpassed power at present in the world's only divided nation, Korea, compulsively defends itself while constantly in a state of insecurity and ambiguity while facing challenges and resistance, and endless cracks form in its logic.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

Kapoor explores the theme of ambiguity with his works that place the viewer in a state of "in-betweenness".

Wikipedia

By dwelling in a constantly shifting state of ambiguity, PC Music rejects the binarism of male/female gender constructs while also blurring the line between real/virtual and self/other. .

Vice

What happens when the environment is in a constant state of flux and uncertainty, ambiguity, and change are the norms?

Huffington Post

A lyric poem exists in a context of ambiguity.

The New Yorker

(Brantley) 'Really Really' The young playwright Paul Downs Colaizzo shows an assured appreciation of the addictive power of ambiguity in this merciless state-of-a-generation play, set on a college campus.

The New York Times

He admits to a degree of ambiguity in his memory of them.

The Guardian - Books

Become a connoisseur of ambiguity.

The New York Times

Instead he deployed a lexicon of ambiguity—"structures of state" or "sovereignty"—that left wiggle-room if things went wrong.

The Economist

"It is in many important respects a model of ambiguity or indeed even self-contradiction.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in a state of ambiguity", ensure that the context clearly indicates what is ambiguous. Avoid vague statements; specify the area or aspect that lacks clarity.

Common error

While accurate, "in a state of ambiguity" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "uncertain", "vague", or "equivocal" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in a state of ambiguity" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to describe a condition or situation. It specifies the nature of something as being unclear, indefinite, or open to multiple interpretations. While Ludwig does not provide direct examples of this phrase, its composition and structure align with standard English grammar.

Expression frequency: Missing

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in a state of ambiguity" is a grammatically sound and useful expression for describing situations characterized by uncertainty or multiple interpretations. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct, though its usage frequency is not currently high enough to determine common contexts. For writers, it's crucial to use the phrase precisely, ensuring the context clarifies what exactly is ambiguous. While effective, avoid overuse by substituting with synonyms like "uncertain" or "vague" to enhance writing style. Despite a lack of direct examples in Ludwig, the phrase remains a valuable tool for expressing nuanced meanings related to unclear or indefinite circumstances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a condition of uncertainty

Replaces "state" with "condition", emphasizing the existence of doubt.

in a situation of vagueness

Substitutes "ambiguity" with "vagueness", highlighting the lack of clarity.

in a period of flux

Focuses on the changing and unstable nature of the situation, implying ambiguity as a result.

amidst the fog of uncertainty

Uses a metaphorical "fog" to convey the obscurity and confusion associated with uncertainty.

characterized by indefiniteness

Highlights the lack of clear definition or boundaries.

marked by equivocation

Emphasizes the use of ambiguous language intended to conceal the truth or avoid commitment.

shrouded in obscurity

Implies that the ambiguity is concealing or hiding something.

subject to multiple interpretations

Focuses on the possibility of different valid understandings.

open to various readings

Similar to "subject to multiple interpretations", but emphasizes the act of interpreting.

lacking definitive answers

Highlights the absence of clear or certain solutions.

FAQs

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

You can use "in a state of ambiguity" to describe situations where information is unclear or open to multiple interpretations. For example: "The company's financial forecasts remained in a state of ambiguity due to market volatility."

What are some alternatives to "in a state of ambiguity"?

Alternatives include phrases like "in a condition of uncertainty", "amidst the fog of uncertainty", or "subject to multiple interpretations", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in a state of ambiguity" or "in a state of uncertainty"?

Both phrases are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Ambiguity" emphasizes the possibility of multiple interpretations, while "uncertainty" emphasizes a lack of knowledge or predictability. Choose the phrase that best fits the specific context.

What does it mean to be "in a state of ambiguity"?

To be "in a state of ambiguity" means to be in a situation where the meaning, intention, or outcome is unclear or uncertain. It suggests a lack of definitive information or a situation that can be understood in multiple ways.