English vocabulary · C2
Tergiversation
/ˌtɜːrdʒɪvərˈseɪʃn/ · n.
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With tergiversation, you use words to hide the truth from those who ask. You keep changing your answer each time so no one knows what you mean.
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Example sentences
- His tergiversation cost votes.
- Stop your tergiversation.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- tergiversatio — dodge (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- LIE — something that is false (A false statement)
- SPIN — a one-sided story (Make facts suit you)
- DODGE — a trick to avoid something (Avoid the question)
Similar words
- evasion
- deceit
- spin
- lie
- equivocation
Lesson notes
With tergiversation, you use words to hide the truth from those who ask. You keep changing your answer each time so no one knows what you mean.
Related: lie, spin, dodge. Use tergiversation when words hide truth.
His tergiversation cost votes. Stop your tergiversation.
From Latin. Ter-ji-ver-sah-tee-oh- means dodge. Dodge the truth and turn your back on the facts: tergiversation.