Ambiguity Fallacy

Definition:

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

Scenario

When the judge asked the defendant why he hadn’t paid his parking fines, he said that he shouldn’t have to pay them because the sign said “fine for parking here” and so he naturally presumed that it would be fine to park there.

Redressing the fallacy

If you are the one using ambiguous language, clarify what you mean. If your interlocutor is using ambiguous language, invite them to explore the different meanings of the word in question. Be sure to give your interlocutor the space to clarify what they mean.