there is ambiguity

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "there is ambiguity" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing situations, statements, or texts that are unclear or open to multiple interpretations. Example: "In the legal document, there is ambiguity regarding the terms of the agreement, which could lead to misunderstandings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Some commissioners have suggested there is ambiguity as to whether the law applies to ads that do not mention candidates.

The New York Times

There is ambiguity in all such predictions.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Typically for Shakespeare there is ambiguity.

Nature

There is ambiguity in the very name.

The Guardian - Books

There is ambiguity in Landis's story.

The New York Times - Sports

If the index finger was pressed, then there is ambiguity on which column is pressed.

Cornell University

Furthermore, there is ambiguity (and commercial variation) in the exact process temperature when UHT processing.

Food and Bioproducts Processing

There is ambiguity there; the verdict on the video's subject, though, is clear.

The New Yorker

But I've found that wherever there is ambiguity in my life, a story lies.

The Guardian - Books

The method is known to suffer from the loss of potential positions when there is ambiguity present in the environment.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems

Collaboration becomes messy when there is ambiguity over who is accountable for which decisions, causing decision making to stall.

Harvard Business Review

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "there is ambiguity", clearly identify the source or area where the ambiguity exists to provide context and avoid confusion.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple sentences in a paragraph with "there is ambiguity". Vary your sentence structure by rephrasing to specify what is ambiguous or using synonyms like "uncertainty" or "vagueness".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "there is ambiguity" functions as an existential clause to indicate the presence of ambiguity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability, highlighting its role in introducing uncertainty or multiple interpretations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

49%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "there is ambiguity" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for indicating a lack of clarity or the potential for multiple interpretations. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and versatility. Predominantly found in scientific and news contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse forms of communication. When using this phrase, it's best practice to identify the source of the ambiguity to provide sufficient context. While alternatives like "there is uncertainty" or "there is vagueness" exist, "there is ambiguity" remains a strong and adaptable choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there is uncertainty

This alternative emphasizes a lack of sureness or predictability.

there is a lack of clarity

This alternative directly states the absence of clearness or distinctness.

there is vagueness

This alternative highlights a lack of specificity or detail.

there is doubt

This alternative focuses on a feeling of disbelief or skepticism.

there is confusion

This alternative emphasizes a state of being unclear or perplexed.

there is imprecision

This alternative points to a lack of exactness or accuracy.

there is obscurity

This alternative suggests that something is not easily understood or discovered.

the situation is unclear

This alternative shifts the focus to the state of the situation itself rather than directly stating the existence of ambiguity.

the matter is open to interpretation

This alternative focuses on the subjective nature of understanding the issue.

it's not clear

This alternative is a simpler, more direct way to express the lack of clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "there is ambiguity" in a sentence?

Use "there is ambiguity" to point out a lack of clarity or multiple interpretations in a situation, statement, or text. For example, "In the contract, "there is ambiguity" regarding the payment terms."

What's the difference between "there is ambiguity" and "there is uncertainty"?

"There is ambiguity" suggests multiple possible interpretations, while "there is uncertainty" indicates a lack of sureness or predictability about a future outcome.

What are some phrases similar to "there is ambiguity"?

You can use phrases like "there is vagueness", "there is doubt", or "there is confusion" as alternatives depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "there is ambiguity"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. According to Ludwig, the phrase "there is ambiguity" is correct and commonly used in written English.