equivocate background

equivocate

/ɪˈkwɪvəˌkeɪt/

Illustration equivocate - Image 1

Illustration equivocate - Image 2

verb

Évoquer, user d'équivoques

To use words of equivocal or doubtful signification; to express one's opinions in terms which admit of different senses, with intent to deceive; to use ambiguous expressions with a view to mislead; as, to equivocate is the work of duplicity.

Examples :

"The politician tried to equivocate about his stance on the new tax, hoping to avoid upsetting any voters. "

Le politicien a essayé d'évoquer sa position sur la nouvelle taxe, espérant ne froisser aucun électeur.

language communication word philosophy moral logic politics

Illustration equivocate - Image 1

Illustration equivocate - Image 2

verb

Évoquer, tergiverser

To render equivocal or ambiguous.

Examples :

"The politician tended to equivocate on controversial issues, giving vague answers to avoid upsetting anyone. "

Le politicien avait tendance à tergiverser sur les questions controversées, donnant des réponses vagues pour éviter de contrarier qui que ce soit.

communication language philosophy word politics