What is latent ambiguity in the context of land titles?

Latent ambiguity refers to circumstances within land titles where the wording appears clear on the surface but leads to confusion or uncertainty when applied to specific facts. This ambiguity becomes apparent only when extrinsic evidence is introduced, such as additional documents or historical context, which can clarify the intent of the parties involved in the land transaction.

In the context of land titles, identifying latent ambiguity is critical because it can affect ownership rights and the ability to enforce those rights. For instance, if a land title states that property is granted to a "heir" without specifying which heir, latent ambiguity arises. Examining external evidence—like family trees, wills, or historical records—can help clarify which heir is intended.

The other options describe different concepts that do not align with the definition of latent ambiguity. Clear conflicts in evidence refer to situations where there are outright contradictions, discrepancies in measurement concern the physical dimensions of land, and boundary disputes involve disagreements over the location of property lines, none of which involve the nuanced, interpretative nature of latent ambiguity.