equivocate

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William Hupy
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equivocate

Postby William Hupy » Mon Oct 28, 2013 4:42 pm

I find this interesting, even if I do not have it exactly correct. The Latin reduces to "equal voice". The Spanish equivalent "equivocado" translates, I believe, to "wrong". We English speakers use this word to describe language that is ambiguous. Pero, yo podria estar equivocado.
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gailr
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Re: equivocate

Postby gailr » Mon Oct 28, 2013 8:33 pm

Good suggestion, William. I've always thought of this as a synonym for 'weasel words', although the ambiguity of an equivocation depends on the ability to successfully send two different messages with one statement.
to use unclear language especially to deceive or mislead someone

Perry Lassiter
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Re: equivocate

Postby Perry Lassiter » Mon Oct 28, 2013 9:20 pm

Many times I think it is used with hesitation, implying that the person doesn't know exactly what to say. Other times, and even then, it does of course indicate an incorrect answer. I don't really want to equivocate here.
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Slava
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Re: equivocate

Postby Slava » Mon Oct 28, 2013 9:31 pm

I think I'll join the "weasel-words" idea here. Equivocation is an insincere attempt to give equal voice to competing theories.
Then again, it is also hemming and hawing and avoiding the meat of the matter.

Whatever. :D
Life is like playing chess with chessmen who each have thoughts and feelings and motives of their own.


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