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unambiguous

/ˌʌn.æmˈbɪɡ.ju.əs/
adjective★Intermediate💡 clear and not open to interpretation

“The instructions were unambiguous: turn left at the traffic light.”

The instructions were so clear that there was no room for confusion.

formal

Having only one possible meaning or interpretation; not open to doubt or misunderstanding.

The contract's terms were unambiguous, leaving no room for legal disputes.

The contract was written so clearly that its terms could not be misinterpreted.

Her unambiguous refusal made it clear she didn't want to attend the meeting.

She clearly stated she didn't want to attend, leaving no doubt.

💡

Often used in legal, technical, or academic contexts where precision is critical.

Collocations

unambiguous evidenceclear proof that leaves no room for doubtunambiguous statementa clear and definitive declarationunambiguous resulta conclusive outcome with no ambiguity

Synonyms

clearexplicitunequivocaldefinitestraightforward

Antonyms

ambiguousvagueequivocalunclearobscure

💡Pro Tip

Avoiding ambiguity

When writing, use 'unambiguous' to describe language or instructions that leave no room for misinterpretation. For example: 'The email provided an unambiguous deadline of June 15.'

⚡Gold Rule

Precision in communication

In professional settings, replace vague phrases like 'some time' or 'around' with unambiguous terms like 'exactly' or 'precisely' to avoid confusion.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'unambiguus' (un- 'not' + ambiguus 'doubtful, uncertain'), meaning 'not having two meanings'. First recorded in English in the early 17th century.

📝Usage Notes

Used to emphasize that something is so clear that there can be no misunderstanding. Common in formal writing, contracts, and technical documents.

Word Breakdown

un-
not
prefix
+
ambiguous
having two or more possible meanings
root
+
-ous
characterized by
suffix
English Dictionary

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Words of the Year

The most notable words that defined each year. Discover the vocabulary that shaped our world.