equivocate
Say it: ih-KWIV-uh-kayt /ɪˈkwɪvəkeɪt/ · verb
What “equivocate” means
Use unclear words to avoid committing yourself or telling the truth.
More precisely: To use vague or ambiguous language to avoid committing yourself or telling the truth.
When to use it
When someone chooses ambiguous wording to avoid a clear position. A formal, critical word often used about public statements.
Similar words
hedge, prevaricate, waffle
Where it comes from
From Latin aequivocus, 'of identical sound, ambiguous'.
Quick check
Asked whether she supports the ban, a councillor says she supports appropriate measures, carefully leaving her position unclear. What does she do?
equivocate or clarify?
Show the answer
equivocate
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