Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of effective communication?

Ambiguity is not a characteristic of effective communication because effective communication relies on clear understanding and conveyance of information. When communication is ambiguous, it can lead to misunderstandings, confusion, and misinterpretation of the message being delivered.

In contrast, clarity ensures that the message is easily understood, while conciseness keeps the communication to the point, avoiding unnecessary information that may obscure the message. Relevance ensures that the information provided is pertinent to the topic at hand, enhancing the recipient's ability to comprehend and engage with the communication. Therefore, ambiguity stands out as a characteristic that hinders effective communication, making it the correct answer to the question.