2005•Unpublished venueRequires access
On the Phenomenon of Ambiguity in English
Chen Xin-yan
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Abstract
If one kind of linguistic form can transfer two or more meanings and can be interpreted in more than one way, it is called ambiguity. In general, ambiguity is divided into two kinds: lexical ambiguity and grammatical ambiguity. Ambiguity is one of negative factors in communication. The article analyses several factors which could lead to ambiguity and provides several methods to eliminate it. Moreover,the article provides many examples in order to suggest that ambiguity also has the pragmatic value. It is in common use when producing humor.