enigmatic response

[ɪˌnɪɡˈmætɪk rɪˈspɒns]
nounpl: enigmatic responses
resposta enigmática
1. A reply or answer that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand; a response that is deliberately vague or ambiguous
The CEO gave an enigmatic response when asked about the company's future plans.
O CEO deu uma resposta enigmática quando perguntado sobre os planos futuros da empresa.
2. A cryptic or obscure answer that leaves the questioner confused or intrigued
Her enigmatic response to his proposal left him wondering what she really meant.
Sua resposta enigmática à proposta dele o deixou se perguntando o que ela realmente quis dizer.
In both Brazilian and American contexts, an 'enigmatic response' is often used to describe diplomatic or evasive communication, particularly in business, politics, or social situations where the speaker wants to maintain ambiguity or avoid direct confrontation. In Brazil, this phrase is frequently employed when discussing political speeches or corporate announcements. In the USA, it's commonly used in media and everyday conversation to critique unclear or misleading statements from public figures.
NYC Slang
a dodgy answer; a sketchy response
Synonyms / Sinônimos
mysterious responsecryptic answerambiguous replyvague responsepuzzling answerobscure response
Antonyms / Antônimos
clear responsedirect answerstraightforward replyexplicit responsetransparent answer

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
resposta enigmática
Standard usage across Brazil
Rio de Janeiro
resposta enigmática
Common in formal and informal contexts
São Paulo
resposta enigmática
Preferred in business and academic settings
Portugal
resposta enigmática
Identical usage; also 'resposta misteriosa' as alternative

Related Words

enigmamysterycrypticambiguouspuzzleriddleobscureevasive

Related Idioms & Phrases

speak in riddles
give the runaround
beat around the bush
talk in circles
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