ambíguo

Ambíguo is the Portuguese adjective meaning that something has more than one possible meaning or interpretation, or that it is unclear or doubtful. It is commonly used to describe statements, signs, rules, or situations that can be read in two or more ways. The feminine form is ambígua, and the plural forms are ambíguos (masculine) and ambíguas (feminine). The term is frequent in linguistic, philosophical, legal, and journalistic contexts, as well as in everyday speech in both Brazilian and European Portuguese. Related terms include ambiguidade (ambiguity), dúbio (doubtful), and inequívoco (unequivocal).

Etymology and form

Ambíguo derives from Latin ambiguus, which denotes something doubtful or capable of being interpreted in more than one way. The word entered Portuguese through the continuum of Latin into the modern language, preserving the core sense of dual or multiple interpretation. The adjective forms agree with gender and number, and the corresponding noun ambiguidade names the quality of being ambiguous.

Usage and nuances

Ambíguo emphasizes lack of a single, clear reading rather than mere imprecision. It is distinct from terms like claro or inequívoco, which signal clarity and certainty. In academic or legal writing, ambíguo appeals to the need for clarification, precision, or unambiguous criteria. In everyday language, it often comments on statements or rules that invite multiple interpretations.

See also

Ambiguidade, ambivalência, dúbio, inequívoco.