Definition

In a way that is not clear or has more than one possible meaning.

Example

The politician spoke equivocally, leaving the audience unsure of his true intentions.

Conversation

Did you understand what the teacher said about the project?

Not really, she explained it equivocally and it confused me.

Yeah, I feel the same way; her instructions were pretty unclear.

I hope she clarifies it in the next class!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Equivocally → It is formed from "aequus" (meaning equal) and "vocare" (meaning to call). The word "equivocally" means to call something in an equal or ambiguous way, often leading to multiple interpretations.

Memory Tip

Think of calling something 'equal' or 'ambiguous' — 'aequus' means equal, and 'vocare' means to call, which helps you remember that 'equivocally' refers to calling something in a way that can be interpreted in different ways.

Visually Confused Words