equivocally

IPA/ɪˈkwɪv.ə.kəl.i/
IPA/ɪˈkwɪv.ə.kəl.i/

equivocally — adverb

1. using language that deliberately avoids a clear or direct statement, leaving the

1.副詞C1
釋義

using language that deliberately avoids a clear or direct statement, leaving the listener unsure what was actually meant — often done to avoid committing to a firm position.

例句

Zola asked about the promotion, but her boss answered equivocally, saying 'opportunities might arise.'

common pattern: answer / reply equivocally

The senator spoke equivocally about the new law, neither fully supporting nor opposing it.

同義詞
  • ambiguously

    more neutral — simply having more than one possible meaning; 'equivocally' adds the nuance of deliberate avoidance

  • evasively

    focuses on the speaker's intent to avoid answering; 'equivocally' can be accidental too

  • vaguely

    less formal; 'vaguely' suggests lack of detail, while 'equivocally' suggests two opposing readings

反義詞

用法筆記

Frequently modifies verbs of speaking or writing: answer, reply, speak, state, write, or express. The deliberate vagueness is often strategic (political or diplomatic).

常見錯誤

❌He equivocally denied the accusation' (if the denial was clear).
✅He equivocally responded to the accusation, never actually denying it.
💡'equivocally' implies the statement remains unclear, not that it clearly denies or admits something.