Section 19 of 103
18. Ambiguity, Vagueness and Interpretation
Stable section ID: S05-CON-015-SECTION-19 · 9 content blocks
Ambiguity exists when a term or statement supports more than one materially different interpretation. Vagueness exists when its boundaries, degree, quantity, or applicability are insufficiently defined.
Normative System05 content shall minimize both conditions. Terms such as “appropriate,” “adequate,” “normal,” “sufficient,” “near,” “rapid,” “high-quality,” or “where practical” shall be accompanied by criteria, authority, context, or a defined decision process where their interpretation could affect conformance.
Interpretation shall consider:
the approved definition;
the declared scope and qualifiers;
the authority and version of the source;
the complete sentence and document context;
connected requirements, rules, and traceability records.
Where ambiguity may affect safety, compatibility, compliance, certification, or lifecycle responsibility, the interpreter shall not select a convenient meaning. The issue shall be documented and referred for authoritative clarification. Until resolved, affected systems shall remain in an appropriately safe and controlled state.