In: Psychology
Is possible for term to be both vague and ambiguous? (explain)
Vague and ambiguity:
although people often confuse vagueness and ambiguity they are being vague when they do. The two words have very different meanings.
A vague statement that lacks clear and specific meaning while ambiguous is something that could have two meanings or is open to interpretation.
When a word, phrase or sentence is vague , its meaning is unclear or imprecise wait statements often back a follow-up question.
For example if you write or say “ he didn't live up to my expectations”, this vague statement would beg the question,” well, what were your expectations?”
Likewise if you were to write or say,” he was prone to worse behaviour than that,” the likely retort would be , “ Like what?”
Review your words phrases and sentences to make them as clear and precise as possible and add a follow up sentence to crystallize the meaning of it helps to do so. don't place the reader or listener in the position of assuming your intent
When a word, phrase or sentence is ambiguous, it carries more than one possible meaning which may cause confusion for the reader or listener. for example, if you were to write or say, “ I know more talented teachers than John Smith,” this could mean that you know teachers who are more talented than John Smith or that you know a greater number of talented teachers than John Smith does. Sometimes, ambiguous statements can be intentionally humorous, but this quality doesn't excuse the confusion they cause. For example, if you were to write or say, “ Teresa kissed her husband and so did Besty:, you could mean that Besty also kissed Teresa’s husband or that she kissed her own husband. Ambiguous words, phrases and sentences also can be wake, the best way to identify ambiguity is to ask if a word phrase or sentence carries a double meaning if the answer is “yes” then it is ambiguous.