Amphiboly meaning

Amphiboly refers to an ambiguous statement that can be interpreted in multiple ways.


Amphiboly definitions

Word backwards ylobihpma
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division am-phib-o-ly
Plural The plural of the word "amphiboly" is "amphibolies."
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) a,i,o
Consonants (6) m,p,h,b,l,y

Amphiboly is a type of ambiguity that occurs when a sentence or phrase can be interpreted in multiple ways due to its grammar or structure. This ambiguity can lead to confusion or misunderstanding in communication.

Causes of Amphiboly

Amphiboly often arises from syntactic ambiguity, where the structure of a sentence makes it unclear which words are modifying others. For example, in the sentence "I saw the man with binoculars," it's unclear whether the speaker used binoculars to see the man or if the man had binoculars. This ambiguity can lead to different interpretations of the sentence.

Effects of Amphiboly

Amphiboly can result in miscommunication, as the intended meaning of a sentence may be lost or misconstrued. This can lead to frustration, confusion, and misunderstandings in both personal and professional settings. It is important to be aware of potential amphiboly in communication to ensure clarity and precision.

Examples of Amphiboly

One classic example of amphiboly is the statement "Visiting relatives can be a nuisance." This sentence can be interpreted in two ways: either visiting one's relatives can be bothersome, or one's relatives, when visiting, can be nuisances. The ambiguous structure of the sentence allows for multiple interpretations.

Avoiding Amphiboly

To avoid amphiboly in communication, it's essential to pay attention to the structure and syntax of sentences. Clear and concise language can help prevent ambiguity and ensure that the intended meaning is accurately conveyed. Proofreading and clarifying ambiguous statements can also help in reducing misunderstandings.

In conclusion, amphiboly is a common form of ambiguity that can arise in communication due to unclear sentence structures. By being aware of this phenomenon and taking steps to clarify ambiguous statements, individuals can improve the clarity and effectiveness of their communication.


Amphiboly Examples

  1. The police officer saw a man with binoculars.
  2. The professor told the students the big book is overdue.
  3. The horse raced past the barn fell.
  4. I saw the man on the hill with the telescope.
  5. The chef said the soup smells good.
  6. The man saw the lady in the park with the camera.
  7. She told him to get ready to leave.
  8. The man saw the girl with the binoculars.
  9. The company made jeans were too tight.
  10. Please tell your roommate to help.


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  • Updated 04/05/2024 - 00:06:16