The difference between Double entendre and Equivocal

When used as nouns, double entendre means a phrase that has two meanings, especially where one is innocent and literal, the other risqué, bawdy, or ironic, whereas equivocal means a word or expression capable of different meanings.


Equivocal is also adjective with the meaning: having two or more equally applicable meanings.

check bellow for the other definitions of Double entendre and Equivocal

  1. Double entendre as a noun (idiomatic):

    A phrase that has two meanings, especially where one is innocent and literal, the other risqué, bawdy, or ironic; an innuendo.

  1. Equivocal as a noun:

    A word or expression capable of different meanings; an ambiguous term; an equivoque.

  1. Equivocal as an adjective:

    Having two or more equally applicable meanings; capable of double or multiple interpretation; ambiguous; uncertain.

    Examples:

    "equivocal words; an equivocal sentence"

  2. Equivocal as an adjective:

    Capable of being ascribed to different motives, or of signifying opposite feelings, purposes, or characters; deserving to be suspected.

    Examples:

    "His actions are equivocal."

  3. Equivocal as an adjective:

    Uncertain, as an indication or sign; doubtful, incongruous.

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