EQUIVOCAL Synonyms: 186 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'equivocal' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of equivocal are ambiguous , cryptic , dark , enigmatic , obscure , and vague . While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading. // moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

Q: When could 'ambiguous' be used to replace 'equivocal'?

While in some cases nearly identical to equivocal , ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation. // an ambiguous directive

Q: When is it sensible to use 'cryptic' instead of 'equivocal'?

While the synonyms cryptic and equivocal are close in meaning, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. // cryptic hints of hidden treasure

Q: In what contexts can 'dark' take the place of 'equivocal'?

The meanings of dark and equivocal largely overlap; however, dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. // muttered dark hints of revenge

Q: Where would 'enigmatic' be a reasonable alternative to 'equivocal'?

The words enigmatic and equivocal are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality. // enigmatic occult writings

Q: When is 'obscure' a more appropriate choice than 'equivocal'?

Although the words obscure and equivocal have much in common, obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge. // obscure poems

Q: When can 'vague' be used instead of 'equivocal'?

The words vague and equivocal can be used in similar contexts, but vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration. // a vague sense of obligation

equivocal

adjective

i-ˈkwi-və-kəl

Definition of equivocal next

as in questionable

giving good reason for being doubted, questioned, or challenged the evidence that this latest diet really results in lasting weight loss is certainly equivocal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in ambiguous

having an often intentionally veiled or uncertain meaning he responded to the reporter's questions with equivocal answers or refusals to comment

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in unsure

having a mixture of opposing feelings a number of people are clearly equivocal about allowing casino gambling in the state

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word equivocal different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of equivocal are ambiguous, cryptic, dark, enigmatic, obscure, and vague. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading.

moral precepts with equivocal phrasing

When could ambiguous be used to replace equivocal?

While in some cases nearly identical to equivocal, ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation.

an ambiguous directive

When is it sensible to use cryptic instead of equivocal?

While the synonyms cryptic and equivocal are close in meaning, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning.

cryptic hints of hidden treasure

In what contexts can dark take the place of equivocal?

The meanings of dark and equivocal largely overlap; however, dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion.

muttered dark hints of revenge

Where would enigmatic be a reasonable alternative to equivocal?

The words enigmatic and equivocal are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality.

enigmatic occult writings

When is obscure a more appropriate choice than equivocal?

Although the words obscure and equivocal have much in common, obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge.

obscure poems

When can vague be used instead of equivocal?

The words vague and equivocal can be used in similar contexts, but vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration.

a vague sense of obligation

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of equivocal Although multiple sources within the FDNY, City Hall and a former city official told the Daily News that Tucker was widely expected to be tapped as commissioner, the mayor’s office was equivocal when asked for comment Sunday night. —

Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 12 Aug. 2024 Asked at a press conference earlier this month about whether the Vice-President could do well at the top of the ticket, Biden offered an equivocal answer at best. —

Susan B. Glasser, The New Yorker, 25 July 2024 In recent days, Trump and his aides have been more equivocal about the timing. —

David Jackson, USA TODAY, 28 June 2024 For the time being, the prime minister has settled for an equivocal endorsement, insisting that Biden has inaccurately characterized the offer and that Israel has not consented to Hamas’s precondition of a full stop to the war. —

Shalom Lipner, Foreign Affairs, 11 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for equivocal

Recent Examples of Synonyms for equivocal

Adjective

Carter was questionable because of left shoulder soreness.

— Jason Anderson, Sacramento Bee, 17 Jan. 2025
Watson was listed as a full participant and questionable for the game.

— Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 17 Jan. 2025