equivocation

[ ih-kwiv-uh-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. the use of equivocal or ambiguous expressions, especially in order to mislead or hedge; prevarication.
2. an equivocal, ambiguous expression; equivoque:

   The speech was marked by elaborate equivocations.

3. Logic. a fallacy caused by the double meaning of a word.

Word History and Origins

Origin of equivocation¹

1350–1400; Middle English equivocacion < Late Latin aequivocātiōn- (stem of aequivocātiō ). See equivocate, -ion

Example Sentences

Norris said he would welcome such a decision, but with a degree of equivocation.

From BBC

These great democratic leaders also framed the struggle with their opponents in stark, us-versus-them terms, and they used the language of good and evil without equivocation.

From Salon

There was no equivocation on the part of the unanimous court.

From Seattle Times

“I can say utterly without equivocation that @ejeancarroll is one of the most gracious and forthright people I have ever met,” he wrote.

From Salon

Without any equivocation or complication, Prince Harry is coming to visit his father, travelling over from the US alone in the next few days.

From BBC

Related Words

• prevarication