Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
amphibology
noun
/æmˈfɪb.əˌlɒdʒ.i/
Definition
Amphibology is a term used to refer to ambiguous sentences or phrases, which can have multiple interpretations due to their structural complexity.
Examples
- The sentence ‘She saw the man with the telescope’ is an amphibology because it can mean either that she used a telescope to see the man or that the man had a telescope.
- In legal texts, amphibology can create confusion, leading to varying interpretations of the law.
- The joke relied on amphibology to catch the audience off guard with its dual meaning.
Meaning
The word signifies a lack of clarity in language that can lead to misunderstandings.
Synonyms
- Ambiguity
- Equivocation
- Vagueness
