ambiguously
|am/bi/gu/ous/ly|
C1
/æmˈbɪɡ.ju.əs.li/
(ambiguous)
open to interpretation
Etymology
Etymology Information
'ambiguously' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ambiguus,' where 'ambi-' meant 'both' and 'agere' meant 'to drive.'
Historical Evolution
'ambiguus' transformed into the French word 'ambigu,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ambiguous' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'driving both ways,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'open to more than one interpretation.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is open to more than one interpretation; not having one obvious meaning.
The instructions were written ambiguously, leading to confusion.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35