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tergiversation

noun

/ˌtɜːʤɪvɜːˈseɪʃᵊn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of tergiversation

To evasively or dishonestly change one's stance, opinion, or allegiance on a particular issue.
"The politician's constant tergiversation on important issues eroded public trust in their leadership."

Detailed meaning of tergiversation

It implies the deliberate act of shifting positions or making contradictory statements, often with the intention to deceive or avoid taking responsibility. Tergiversation involves a lack of steadfastness or consistency, as an individual may abandon their initial position in favor of a more advantageous or popular stance. It can occur in various contexts, including politics, business, or personal relationships. Tergiversation is typically associated with a sense of betrayal or untrustworthiness, as it undermines the integrity and credibility of the person engaging in such behavior. This noun highlights the negative connotations of intentional flip-flopping or equivocating, suggesting a lack of sincerity and commitment to truth or principles.

Example sentences containing tergiversation

1. His tergiversation during the investigation raised suspicions about his involvement in the crime.
2. The company's tergiversation regarding their environmental practices sparked outrage among activists.
3. Her tergiversation in the courtroom undermined her credibility as a witness.
4. The politician's tergiversation on the campaign trail left voters uncertain about their true intentions.
5. The CEO's tergiversation about the company's financial situation led to panic among shareholders.
6. His tergiversation between two competing job offers left both employers frustrated and withdrew their offers.

History and etymology of tergiversation

The noun 'tergiversation' has its etymological origins in the Latin word 'tergiversari,' which is a combination of 'tergum,' meaning 'back,' and 'versare,' meaning 'to turn.' This etymology aptly captures the essence of 'tergiversation' as the act of evasively or dishonestly changing one's stance, opinion, or allegiance on a particular issue by 'turning one's back' on a previously held position. It signifies a deliberate and often deceptive maneuvering, where individuals or entities avoid commitment or accountability by reversing their positions or allegiances in a manner that can be perceived as dishonest or insincere. 'Tergiversation' underscores the negative connotations associated with such actions, emphasizing the lack of transparency and trustworthiness in such behaviors.

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Further usage examples of tergiversation

1. The suspect's tergiversation during the interrogation made it difficult for the detectives to ascertain the truth.
2. The journalist exposed the corporate executive's tergiversation in a revealing investigative report.
3. The tergiversation of the witness on the stand cast doubt on the reliability of their testimony.
4. The politician's tergiversation on the controversial bill was seen as an attempt to appease different interest groups.
5. His tergiversation in the face of criticism exposed his lack of conviction and principled stance.
6. His tergiversation on the matter left us all confused.
7. Political tergiversation erodes trust in elected officials.
8. Her constant tergiversation made it hard to rely on her.
9. The leader's tergiversation betrayed his true intentions.
10. Tergiversation in negotiations can lead to deadlock.
11. We couldn't tolerate his tergiversation any longer.
12. The tergiversation in his speech raised suspicion.
13. Clear communication avoids misunderstandings and tergiversation.
14. Tergiversation in business dealings is unethical.
15. The politician's tergiversation was widely criticized.
16. Tergiversation undermines the integrity of decision-making.
17. The board was frustrated by the CEO's tergiversation.
18. The media exposed his tergiversation on the issue.
19. Tergiversation often masks a lack of commitment.
20. His tergiversation damaged his credibility with the team.
21. Tergiversation hinders progress and resolution.
22. We sought clarity amidst the tergiversation in the debate.
23. The company's tergiversation cost them valuable clients.
24. Tergiversation should not be tolerated in leadership.
25. Transparency can counteract tendencies toward tergiversation.