What Words or Phrases are Ambiguous? Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in What Words or Phrases are Ambiguous? Deck (7)
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1
Q

When is a word ambiguous

A

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

2
Q

Ambiguity

A

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

3
Q

Key Terms

A

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

4
Q

Abstract

A

When it refers less and less to particular, specific instances

5
Q

Clues for Locating Key Terms

A
  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
6
Q

Context

A

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

7
Q

Components of Reasoning

A

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?