Ambiguity

Definition

Linguistic ambiguity arises when multiple meanings or interpretations for a given word, sentence, structure, and so on interfere with a speaker’s intended production. The various constructions may make the intended meaning unclear as a result of lexical, syntactic or semantic factors. Linguists have identified four main forms of ambiguity: lexical, structural, scope, and pronoun.

Examples

In Secwepemctsín, ambiguity arises when two third-person arguments are used within a clause. (Lai, 1998, p. 58)

Example in the Secwepemctsín Context of Ambiguity by the Use of Two Third-Person Arguments in a Clause (Lai, 1998, p. 58)

References

Lai, I. S. (1998). The grammar and acquisition of Secwepemctsín independent pronouns. [Master’s thesis, The University of British Columbia].