Ambiguity: Definition, Examples, and Types

Ambiguity is a literary device that occurs when a word, phrase, statement, or idea can be interpreted in more than one way or has multiple meanings. Ambiguity often creates a sense of vagueness, uncertainty, or confusion in the reader or audience, leading to doubt, suspense, and a desire for clarity or resolution. Use of Ambiguity in Literature Writers use ambiguity to create complexity, uncertainty, and depth in their works. Ambiguity can involve various elements such as words, phrases, characters, plot points, situations, and literary conventions. It engages readers by challenging them to interpret multiple meanings. Common Ambiguity Examples Here are some common examples of ambiguity: A good life depends on a liver – Is "liver" referring to the organ or a living person? Foreigners are hunting dogs – Are dogs being hunted, or are foreigners compared to dogs? Each of us saw her duck – Does "duck" mean the action of ducking or a bird? The passerby helped the dog bite victi…