What is the meaning of 'ambiguous'?

• A. Clear and definite
• B. Not definite
• C. Obvious
• D. Having more than one possible meaning

Answer: (D)

Ambiguous describes language that could mean more than one thing. When something is ambiguous, there isn’t a single clear interpretation, so readers or listeners might wonder which meaning the speaker intends and often need more details to decide. For example, a phrase like “I'll see you soon” is ambiguous because “soon” could mean in a few minutes, hours, or days, leaving the exact timing open to interpretation.

This is why the idea of having more than one possible meaning fits best. It highlights the key feature of ambiguity: multiple plausible readings. The opposite—being clear and definite—means there’s no confusion about the meaning. Saying something is obvious suggests it’s easy to understand, not ambiguous. Saying it’s “not definite” points to uncertainty in general, but ambiguity specifically focuses on several possible meanings rather than just a lack of clarity.