Fallacy of ambiguity

When an unclear phrase with multiple definitions is used within the argument, or word having
two meanings therefore does not support the conclusion.

Using double meanings or ambiguities of language to mislead or misrepresent the truth.

Forms of fallacy of ambiguity

 Premises are presented that are unclear enough to allow for more than one conclusion.
 A single conclusion is drawn from these premises.

Elements of ambiguity
1. Lexical ambiguity
2. Syntactic ambiguity

Lexical ambiguity
Lexical ambiguity presents two or more possible meanings within a single word. It is also known
as semantic ambiguity.

Example: Do you believe in clubs for young people?

Syntactic ambiguity
Syntactic ambiguity presents two or more possible meanings within a phrase or sentence. This is
also known as structural ambiguity.

Example: I shot an elephant in my pajamas.

Examples:
1. Foreigners are hunting dogs.
2. Each of us saw her duck.
3. John took off his trousers by bank.
4. I trade a black horse in red pajama.
5. I saw someone on the hill with a telescope.
6. Call me a taxi, please.
I am opposed to taxes which slow economic growth.
What exactly is this political candidate trying to say? Is she opposed to all taxes because
they will slow economic growth? Or is she instead only to those taxes that have the effect
of slowing economic growth? Some people will see one, and some will see the other,
depending on their prejudices and agendas. Thus, we have a case of amphiboly here.
statement is such that several distinct meanings can obtain (example: “The governor says, 'Save
soap and waste paper.' So soap is more valuable than paper.”).