Translation guide
The English word 'equivocal' describes language that is deliberately unclear, ambiguous, or open to more than one interpretation. This guide helps learners express this concept naturally in Japanese, covering vague statements, ambiguous wording, and evasive replies.
Describing a statement that is unclear or can be understood in multiple ways, often intentionally.
The most common and versatile word for 'vague' or 'ambiguous'. Can describe statements, attitudes, or memories.
His reply was equivocal.
Please don't use equivocal expressions.
Literally 'not leaning to either side', meaning non-committal or sitting on the fence. Often used for opinions or attitudes.
His opinions are always equivocal.
Means 'unclear' or 'obscure', often used in formal contexts for statements or explanations that lack clarity.
The explanation was equivocal and caused misunderstanding.
Technical term meaning 'polysemous' or having multiple meanings. Used in linguistics or literary analysis.
The words in this poem are equivocal.
Describing speech that avoids giving a direct answer, often to hide the truth or avoid commitment.
Literally 'to muddy one's words', meaning to be evasive or equivocate. Very common for describing someone who avoids a clear answer.
He gave an equivocal answer to the question.
Means 'not clear' or 'vague'. Can describe a person's attitude or a statement. Less idiomatic than 言葉を濁す but very common.
His attitude was equivocal.
Colloquial word for 'uncertain', 'vague', or 'non-committal'. Often used for unreliable memories or indecisive answers.
Idiom meaning to evade the issue or give a vague answer to get through a situation. Similar to 言葉を濁す but more situational.
Describing something that can be understood in multiple ways, often due to its nature or design.
Means 'there is room for interpretation'. A natural way to say something is equivocal or ambiguous.
That statement is equivocal.
Means 'can be taken either way'. Used when a statement or action is ambiguous.
His words are equivocal.
Formal term meaning 'ambiguous' or 'having two meanings'. Rare in everyday speech.
The expression is equivocal.
曖昧 (aimai) is the most common word for 'vague' or 'ambiguous' and can be used in most situations. 不明瞭 (fumeiryou) is more formal and emphasizes lack of clarity, often used in written or official contexts.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'equivocal' in all contexts. Using 曖昧 is usually safe, but for evasive speech, 言葉を濁す is more natural. Avoid directly translating 'equivocal' as エクイボーカル, which is not used.
Don't be equivocal; say it clearly.
彼の返事はあやふやだった。
His reply was equivocal.
He was equivocal and didn't get to the point.