Equivocators

Equivocators are individuals who use ambiguous language, intentionally employing vagueness or uncertainty in their statements to avoid committing themselves to a specific position or truth. They often speak in riddles, using evasive language to mislead or deceive, either to gain an advantage, protect themselves, or simply to avoid conflict. Their pronouncements are characterized by double meanings and are often difficult to interpret definitively, leaving listeners unsure of their true intentions or beliefs. The skill of an equivocator lies in their ability to create doubt, allowing them to navigate sensitive situations with relative impunity.

Equivocators meaning with examples

• During the press conference, the politician, known for being an equivocator, skillfully avoided answering direct questions about his past business dealings. His vague responses and reliance on complex legal jargon left reporters frustrated, unable to pin him down on specifics, buying him crucial time and deflecting direct accusations.
• The witness, a practiced equivocator, repeatedly used phrases like 'it's my understanding' and 'to the best of my recollection' when testifying. This allowed him to provide potentially misleading information while retaining a level of plausible deniability, cleverly obscuring the truth from the jury.
• In the diplomatic negotiations, the foreign emissary, an expert equivocator, employed carefully crafted phrases that appeased both sides of the conflict. By offering ambiguous promises and open interpretations, he aimed to maintain a fragile peace without making any concrete commitments that might jeopardize his position, ultimately prolonging the negotiations.
• The fortune teller, playing the role of an equivocator, crafted vague predictions about the future using ambiguous pronouncements, so they would hold true regardless of the actual events. This deceptive practice allows him to maintain his reputation and collect payment for his unclear yet adaptable prognostication.