What Words or Phrases are Ambiguous?

Question 1

When is a word ambiguous

Answer 1

When its meaning is so uncertain in the context of the argument we are examining that we need further clarification before we can judge the adequacy of the reasoning

Question 2

Ambiguity

Answer 2

Refers to the existence of multiple possible meanings for a word or phrase

Question 3

Key Terms

Answer 3

Words or phrases that seem curcial in determining how well the author’s reasons support the conclusion

Question 4

Abstract

Answer 4

When it refers less and less to particular, specific instances

Question 5

Clues for Locating Key Terms

Answer 5

1. Review issue for possible key terms.
2. Look for crucial words or phrases within the reason and conclusion.
3. Keep an eye out for abstract words and phrases
4. Use reverse role-playing to determine how someone might define certain words and phrases differently

Question 6

Context

Answer 6

The writer’s or speaker’s background, traditional uses of the term within the particular controversy, and the words and statements preceding and folowing the possible ambiguity

Question 7

Components of Reasoning

Answer 7

Key Terms and Phrases
Which of these are adequately defined
Which of these possess other possible definitions, which if substituted, would modify your reaction to the reasoning?
Which of these are ambiguous within the context of the argument?