unambiguous language

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unambiguous language" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to language that is clear and has only one possible interpretation, often in contexts like legal documents, technical writing, or communication where clarity is essential. Example: "In legal contracts, it is crucial to use unambiguous language to avoid any misunderstandings between the parties involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

The unambiguous language of § 101 fairly embraces respondent's invention.

Cornell University

The study team has employed similarly unambiguous language in statements in other public fora.

Case Studies on Transport Policy

But he did not use the unambiguous language that Poles had hoped for.

The Economist

Unambiguous language prohibiting modifications was less commonly employed on the five listservs I examined.

Harvard University

They are told in concise, unambiguous language and reflect the author's skepticism about human nature, tempered by sympathetic understanding.

Britannica

It is striking how, when we reach the subject, Ramprakash resorts to unambiguous language and even one-word answers.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

The only authority cited by the panel majority for its contrary conclusion was a non-copyright case cited by the defendants (Defendants' Reply Brief, 13), that goes no further than to recite the familiar rule that "unambiguous" statutory language cannot "be expanded or contracted" with legislative history.

Stanford University

This poem has been written in what is often described now as the period's plain style – something like the conversational style of unambiguous, straightforward language that was supposedly favored by the Puritan clergy in the seventeenth century, and I think that makes sense.

Yale University

Making such decisions is by definition a political action; volcanologists, as well as other experts from different fields of science, contribute by informing political decision-makers through clear, unambiguous, effective language and communication, enabling decision-makers to execute the roles and duties that are within their societal mandate.

Journal of Applied Volcanology

We propose a different starting basis for text mining: if biological processes could be universally transposed into a formal, unambiguous logical language, text mining would benefit from the added precision, non-ambiguity and amenability to computer processing that the latter would provide, compared to natural language.

Plosone

Analysis of alternatives revealed that measurement of unambiguous terminology produces the greatest conceptual equivalency across languages and cultures.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting contracts, use "unambiguous language" to prevent future disputes arising from differing interpretations. Clearly define key terms and conditions to ensure all parties understand their obligations.

Common error

Avoid embedding multiple clauses within a single sentence when aiming for "unambiguous language". Keep sentences concise and focused on a single idea to enhance clarity and reduce the risk of misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unambiguous language" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It typically modifies another noun, indicating a quality or characteristic of that noun. As seen in Ludwig's examples, it often describes legal documents, contracts, or communications that require precision.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Academia

28%

Science

24%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unambiguous language" is a crucial element in effective communication, particularly in fields requiring precision such as law, science, and formal documentation. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and common usage of the phrase, highlighting its importance in preventing misunderstandings. Related phrases like "clear and precise language" and "explicit language" offer similar meanings with subtle differences in emphasis. To ensure clarity, writers should define key terms, avoid complex sentence structures, and test their writing for potential misinterpretations. The phrase appears frequently in News & Media, Academia and Science, demonstrating its widespread relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

clear and precise language

This alternative emphasizes both clarity and accuracy in the language used, suggesting a high level of detail and explicitness.

explicit language

Focuses on the direct and overt nature of the language, leaving no room for implication or vagueness.

plain language

Highlights the simplicity and ease of understanding of the language, suitable for a broad audience.

clear language

This alternative is a more general term that emphasizes ease of understanding and lack of confusion.

well-defined language

Suggests that the language is structured and its terms are carefully defined, often in technical contexts.

unequivocal language

Emphasizes that the language is absolute and admits no doubt or misinterpretation.

definite language

Implies a sense of finality and certainty in the expression, removing any ambiguity.

precise wording

Focuses on the careful selection of words to convey a specific meaning without any ambiguity.

straightforward language

Highlights the direct and uncomplicated nature of the communication, avoiding complexity.

explicit terms

This alternative focuses on the explicitness of the terminology rather than the overall language.

FAQs

How can I use "unambiguous language" in legal writing?

In legal writing, using "unambiguous language" is crucial to prevent misinterpretations. Define all key terms explicitly, avoid jargon, and ensure each clause has only one possible meaning. For example, instead of saying 'The client may reasonably believe...', specify 'The client believes...'

What is the difference between "clear language" and "unambiguous language"?

"Clear language" ensures easy understanding, while "unambiguous language" eliminates any possibility of multiple interpretations. "Unambiguous language" is more precise and often necessary in legal or technical contexts.

Which is better, "clear and concise language" or "unambiguous language"?

Both are valuable, but the best choice depends on context. "Clear and concise language" is good for general communication. "Unambiguous language" is preferable where precision is paramount, such as in contracts or scientific documentation.

What are some techniques for ensuring my writing uses "unambiguous language"?

To achieve "unambiguous language", define terms, avoid pronouns with unclear references, use active voice, and test your writing on someone unfamiliar with the subject. Aim for simplicity and directness in every sentence.