What's the difference between
and
Enter two words to compare and contrast their definitions, origins, and synonyms to better understand how those words are related.

Equivocate vs Ambivalence - What's the difference?

equivocate | ambivalence |

As a verb equivocate

is 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.

As a noun ambivalence is

the coexistence of opposing attitudes or feelings (such as love and hate) towards a person, object or idea.

equivocate

English

(Webster 1913)

Alternative forms

* (archaic)

Verb

(equivocat)
  • 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.
    • All that Garnet had to say for him was that he supposed he meant to equivocate . -.
  • To render equivocal or ambiguous.
    • He equivocated his vow by a mental reservation. -.

    Synonyms

    * prevaricate * evade * shuffle * quibble * dodge * adumbrate

    See also

    * prevaricate

    External links

    * ----

    ambivalence

    English

    Noun

  • The coexistence of opposing attitudes or feelings (such as love and hate) towards a person, object or idea.
  • A state of uncertainty or indecisiveness.

    • Usage notes

    This word is often used as to express a lack of concern about the outcome of a choice to be made [http://www.google.com.au/search?sourceid=navclient&ie=UTF-8&rls=GGLJ,GGLJ:2006-10,GGLJ:en&q=ambivalent+to+mean+indifferent]. In this case, a more appropriate word to use is indifference. The confusion is probably caused by the similarity of sounds between the two words and the passive sound of the word.

    Related terms

    * ambivalent