it is equivocal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it is equivocal" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that is ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations. Example: "The results of the study are inconclusive; it is equivocal whether the treatment had any effect."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Collaborators are quickly dealt with but the punishment of pro-Japanese is unfinished to an extent that it is equivocal.

Asian Journal of German and European Studies

In mice, however, it is equivocal whether cAMP indeed evokes a Ca2+ signal.

eLife

Beyond that it is equivocal whether their 'updated' model provides any tangible benefit.

Critical Care

The telson has evolved differently in different arthropod groups and is sometimes so reduced in the adult that what remains of it is equivocal.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

While there is clearly a need to restore carbohydrate and energy reserves and to ensure an adequate supply of omega fatty acids and other elements essential for myelin synthesis, it is equivocal whether dietary supplementation is capable of delivering the requisites to where they are needed.

Behavioral and Brain Functions

Although there is strong evidence for the relationship between PAH exposure and lung, skin, and bladder cancer in humans, it is equivocal as to whether PAH exposure is associated with breast cancer (Boffetta et al. 1997; Gammon and Santella 2008; Shimada 2006).

Environmental Health Perspectives

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The preventive effect was clear for manic episodes, although it was equivocal for depressive episodes.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

In 5, localisation of conjugate was demonstrated, in another it was equivocal and in 2 patients, undetectable.

British Journal of Cancer

If it's equivocal it's not such a problem because then they'll still go on to have an angiogram, or a thallium, or something".

BMJ Open

But it noticeable that she is equivocal about Gervais and says no decision has been taken on whether Life's Too Short will return for a second series.

The Guardian

His appearance, however, is equivocal: it makes Carla Devade feel like a protective older sister or a missionary nun in Africa, but it catches at Marie-Thérèse Réveillé like barbed wire and triggers a vague erotic longing.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it is equivocal" when you want to convey that a situation, evidence, or statement is not definitive or clear-cut. This phrase is suitable for formal writing where precision is valued.

Common error

Avoid using "it is equivocal" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "it's unclear" or "it's uncertain" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it is equivocal" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a subject (often 'it') to describe its state as uncertain or ambiguous. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It serves to qualify a statement or finding, indicating a lack of definitive clarity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

41%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it is equivocal" is a formal way of expressing that something is uncertain or ambiguous. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness and suitability for formal and scientific contexts. While common in academic, scientific, and news-related writing, simpler alternatives like "it is unclear" or "it is uncertain" may be more appropriate in informal settings. When using this phrase, be aware of its register and choose the most fitting alternative based on your audience and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it is questionable

This alternative suggests that there are reasons to doubt or question something.

it is uncertain

This phrase indicates a lack of sureness or definiteness about something.

it is ambiguous

This alternative highlights the possibility of multiple interpretations.

it is vague

This suggests a lack of clarity or precision.

it is inconclusive

This implies that the available evidence does not lead to a definite conclusion.

it is doubtful

This expresses a feeling of uncertainty or disbelief.

the evidence is mixed

This suggests that some evidence supports a claim while other evidence contradicts it.

it remains unclear

Emphasizes that a lack of clarity persists.

it is debatable

Implies that the topic is subject to discussion and disagreement.

it is unconfirmed

Indicates that the information has not been verified or corroborated.

FAQs

What does "it is equivocal" mean?

The phrase "it is equivocal" means that something is ambiguous, uncertain, or open to multiple interpretations. It suggests a lack of clear or definitive evidence.

How can I use "it is equivocal" in a sentence?

You can use "it is equivocal" to describe results, statements, or situations that are not clear or conclusive. For example: "The research findings are inconclusive; "it is equivocal" whether the new policy will be effective."

What can I say instead of "it is equivocal"?

You can use alternatives like "it is unclear", "it is uncertain", or "it is ambiguous" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "it is equivocal"?

Use "it is equivocal" in formal or academic writing where you need to express a nuanced sense of uncertainty or ambiguity. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives may be preferred.