Ambiguity (Equivocation) Fallacy
Spot the Fallacy Team
Team Content
The ambiguity fallacy relies on vague or shifting meanings to make an argument appear valid.
The ambiguity fallacy relies on vague or shifting meanings to make an argument appear valid.
Why it is a fallacy
A claim needs evidence that connects the reasons to the conclusion. This fallacy skips that connection or replaces it with a shortcut.
Examples
- The policy is fair because everyone gets what they deserve.
- This product raises value, so it must be valuable.
- The company is big, so it must be important.
How to respond
- Ask for precise definitions of key terms.
- Restate the claim using clear language.
- Point out where meanings shift mid-argument.
Related fallacies
FAQ
How do I spot ambiguity?
Watch for vague words or definitions that change between sentences.
Is ambiguity always bad?
No, but it becomes fallacious when used to avoid clarity.
References
- Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Fallacies)
- Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy (Logic and Critical Thinking)
- Nizkor Project (Fallacies)