Ambiguity refers to an absence of shared meaning ranging from different understandings of words to different ways of communicating or even varied interpretations of nonverbal communication, which can cause miscomprehension. For example, there may be different styles of speaking and ways of expressing ideas and opinions across cultures, and there may be use of gestures and facial expressions which signify different meanings in different cultures. Tolerance for ambiguity is considered to be a helpful trait when communicating in intercultural contexts.
See also Tolerance for Ambiguity
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