ambiguous vs ambivalent
Definitions
adjective
- having more than one possible meaning
- having no intrinsic or objective meaning; not organized in conventional patterns
- open to two or more interpretations; or of uncertain nature or significance; or (often) intended to mislead
Examples
That which is soft and effeminate, which is calculated to excite the passions, by multitudes of ambiguous expressions, (not the less dangerous for being so cloaked) should be considered by Christians as an abuse the more deplorable, as it has even been censured and condemned by the pagans.
In this kind of world, the weak and feeble minded are cast to the side to die an unambiguous death, while the strong and wise go on to live a fruitful, long life.
Lacking auditory and visual cues, the e-mail message or newsgroup post can be productively ambiguous in tone.
Definitions
adjective
- uncertain or unable to decide about what course to follow
Examples
At the moment, the public has a rather ambivalent attitude toward science.
Mares which are in the ambivalent early stages of estrus or which are mistakenly in diestrus pose a clear safety threat in close quarters.
It was as impossible to be ambivalent about Diana as it is to be equivocal about going to war.
