", "The primary application of 'vague' is to sentences, not to words. We have no clear idea. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. For example, the common noun "elephant" divides the world into elephants and non-elephants. What is a vague word? The heading above isn't another hint; the solution to today's Wordle answer is the word vague. We especially use vague expressions before numbers, quantities and times to make them sound less factual: Ill see you at about 8 tomorrow morning for breakfast. Before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely and be sure The fly ball soared over the stands high. 2023. I vaguely remember him as the resident nerd. 15 e.g. 2a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : indistinct only a vague notion of what's needed also : slight a vague hint of a thickening waistline hasn't the vaguest idea. Antonyms: distinct, clear. showing lack of clear perception or understanding: a vague stare. These are called hedges: about, kind of, sort of, -ish (suffix), stuff, things: Theres sort of something I dont like about her. The house is equipped with a cooker, washing machine, television, etc. http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1210_how_to_converse/page17.shtml Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. Its a waste of time, a waste of ones life. It's a rather vague term to put into Google. Whats that stuff you use when your lips get dry? Think of it this way: If you're saying . Let's say you have researched the link between drinking soda and obesity. Moderate: great, honorable, admirable, commendable, sound, splendid, superb, valuable, wonderful, worthy, clever, proficient, qualified, apt, skillful, thorough, wholesome Bold: excellent, exceptional, gratifying, marvelous, reputable, stupendous, superior, exemplary, virtuous, expert, solid, advantageous, flawless, extensive, perfect Bad From Carter and McCarthy's point of view, vague language is confined to the lexical level as they regard vague language as imprecise words or phrases. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! They state a general idea but leave the precise meaning to the receiver's interpretationThe following examples show vague or abstract words and ways to make them specific and precise: Notice in the preceding examples how adding a few words makes the meaning precise. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! The book has often been looked at from a feminist perspective and so forth but I want to look at it from a political perspective today. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Change a phrase into a single word or an adjective. You can specify conditions of storing and accessing cookies in your browser. These expressions include: what do you call it?, whats it called?, its a kind of X, its a sort of X, its a type of X, or something, thing, stuff: Vals been in hospital for tests. Here are some sentence examples of the word. The pitfalls are also that entire groups of people can be manipulated. ThoughtCo, Feb. 16, 2021, thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483. It does not store any personal data. http://www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483 This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The synonyms dark and vague are sometimes interchangeable, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. Vague language is words and phrases that arent very exact or precise. This handout will explain some common issues related to word choice and give you strategies for choosing the best words as you revise your drafts. Definitions of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness Im more or less done here. Without further delay, here are the seven words and phrases to avoid if you want to become a better writer. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Synonyms: obscure, faint, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined. 'pa pdd chac-sb tc-bd bw hbr-20 hbss lpt-25' : 'hdn'">, Test your vocabulary with our fun image quizzes, Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English. Imprecise; uncertain; indefinite. Vague language is language that talks about something without directly saying what it is. What happens to atoms during chemical reaction? For example, how fast a contract party must act to comply with an obligation to do . The cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. Avoid the pitfalls of boring, clichd words, vague and overused abstractions, and technical jargon. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". What These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. On the other hand, specific words precisely and shortly convey your meaning. The following are examples of vague words or expressions, along with more specific ones: . Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. People use it, but not one sentence stops working if "in order to" is deleted (or replaced with "to," which has the same meaning). In other words, "tall" is vague. It can mean I dont want to talk to you. The vague words or phrases in the thesis statement below are: This refers to the use of words where the speaker (or writer) does not give precise information about what he is describing. "Good" is just good enough. Being vague. Use precise quantities instead of this overly . should be challenged on grounds of vagueness. 2) Accordingly: Accordingly is a chunky word and it . To save this word, you'll need to log in. Vague. Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vague. 18. enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality. We often add words and phrases such as about, kind of, sort of, and that kind of thing to make what we say less factual and direct: Which is an example of vagueness in speech? Vague. Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vague. 3 0 obj Vague(verb) unsettled; unfixed; undetermined; indefinite; ambiguous; as, a vague idea; a vague proposition. She vaguely recognized the blond boy. Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. What is a Vague Word? Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. When can vague expressions be impolite? Ambiguity is when there is more than one clear meaning, and it is difficult to choose which meaning was intended. I need to buy cards and wrapping paper and stuff like that. Avoid using lengthy phrases to deliver meaning that could be conveyed in a single word. The fascinating story behind many people's favori Can you handle the (barometric) pressure? In the matrices below are often misused or overused words and optional replacement words to potentially "spice up" an essay. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. For . On the other hand, ambiguous writing speaks of concepts that could have several different meanings without pinpointing what's specifically being said. instructor's instructions to "Go home and write a page We sometimes use vague category expressions in writing. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. 4. 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. In one of George Ade's Forty Modern Fables a man has certain stock phrases which he uniformly uses in all discussions pertaining to art, literature, and music; and the moral is, 'For parlor use, the vague generality is a life-saver.' The fascinating story behind many people's favori Can you handle the (barometric) pressure? Definition of vague 1 as in unclear not expressed in precise terms gave as vague a reply as he could, hoping not to give away the surprise Synonyms & Similar Words Relevance unclear ambiguous fuzzy cryptic indefinite inexplicit confusing nebulous obscure enigmatic hazy muzzy indistinct murky enigmatical unintelligible undefined uncertain equivocal These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. We usually give examples of members of the group or category (underlined below) and then add a vague expression, e.g. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". This one small change makes the statement clearer. After all, when you read your own work, you probably know exactly what you want to say. Well, theyre not sure. I cant meet up later. The most common ones are: and so on and et cetera (which is shortened to etc.). Most Dangerous Game Plot Diagram Directions: Organize the plot events you summarized into the five stages Plot Diagram ", "Vague words are very common on surveys. Avoid saying "one of the most important," "one of the best.". necklaces, bracelets and things like that. Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. See definition of vague on Dictionary.com adj. Watch your back! Fairbanks, Juneau, and Anchorage all come in as top cities with the most searches for this annoying term. It is very vague and awful. negative hysteresis), present in two different tasks, a comparative task involving two color names, and a yes/no task involving a single color name, but not found in a corresponding color matching task. % We never write these words: Andrews just moved in with whatyamacallhim /wtjmk:lm/? But the vagueness of a sentence does not imply that vagueness of every constituent word. Things are moving ahead. I found that statement vague and unclear. Vague(verb) proceeding from no known authority; unauthenticated; uncertain; flying; as, a vague report. The Through the mist I could just make out a vague figure. ), We expect to take in or around two years to complete the project. We can use vague expressions when we are not sure of the name of something. b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. Click on the arrows to change the translation direction. Where are all the knives and forks and that kind of thing? vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration. In what contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague? These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Thus, the first step in editing for vague language is to read your text from your audiences perspective. What does it mean if someone is vague? Nordquist, Richard. What are your views on the new government and the changes they have made and so forth? Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Adjective: vague. Required fields are marked *. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Statutes that are vague are ordinarily void on that ground. The top 4 are: ambiguous, obscure, effort and undefined. In an academic setting, writers have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging repetition and the use of informal words. ), <60yxuNP]V2$&wh 6(L1# aB]p1[>v6:]DH$*@^*H SCt||n+1.6 \jQ#?-seeFyo?x3??'nHH^Z$~fWw*)rP-OcBBw@TAbt,/ Words I'll avoid in 2023 - Every year I select three overused, vague or euphemistic words to try to eliminate from my professional writing (and speech, for The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. 21. Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague for Arabic Speakers. Vague or abstract words tend to conceal your meaning. We often add words and phrases such as about, kind of, sort of, and that kind of thing to make what we say less factual and direct: There were about twenty people at the meeting. Rising Action Vague(noun) an indefinite expanse. While in some cases nearly identical to vague, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. How often do we hear the common criticism of the typically weak, impressionless address: 'Platitudes and glittering generalities.' Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. It is either the most important or not. 2a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : indistinct only a vague notion of what's needed also : slight a vague hint of a thickening waistline hasn't the vaguest idea. ), However, whatever, whichever, whenever, wherever, whoever. The encyclopedia for writers, researchers, and knowledge workers, Like a foggy day that undermines a hike, vague language undermines communication, creating confusion, ambiguity, and conflict / Moxley. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Watch this video learn how to use these words in sentences.#english #communication #language #speakenglish #learnenglish #sentences Vague comes from the Latin vagus, which means wandering or rambling. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Have I defined terms and concepts the reader may not understand? 2a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : indistinct only a vague notion of whats needed also : slight a vague hint of a thickening waistline hasnt the vaguest idea. What characteristics allow plants to survive in the desert? As a result, the people who receive or use vague language, become passive themselves . Accessed 2 Mar. Wheres the thing for cleaning the window? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. Lacking definite shape, form, or character; indistinct. Vague words are very common on surveys. struggles might you have? You can add -ish to give a vague indication of the time: x=[o{(PpAnPy-^W3JJnxgs#ry?Mubwg+zw~=:x|+H^JfE|Wx/_&^?K[>-~yWuz_*3u~huw/R|q(fIX$1C8B?Mm@~bh_u\d@$? These are informal versions of what do you call it/him/her, etc. 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. Present perfect simple or present perfect continuous? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. . 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. 2 What is a vague word or phrase examples? The words enigmatic and vague are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Delivered to your inbox! Although vagueness often occurs unintentionally, it may also be employed as a deliberate rhetorical strategy to avoid dealing with an issue or responding directly to a question. Delivered to your inbox! Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. Read more about vague words here:brainly.com/question/7325289, This site is using cookies under cookie policy . 1. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Vague means that the information is lacking in detail - if you give a vague description of something, the listener/reader won't be able to imagine the subject with much precision. Broadview Press, 2008. 6 What is meant by the phrase vaguely formed? ")]LIBnv|JH+J$0$ o_w.^  M. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Professors detest vagueness. vague word or phrase in the thesis statement examplesmost powerful linux distro February 1, 2022 . It may be essentially doubtful whether this is a red shape because it is essentially doubtful whether this is red, although beyond doubt that it is a shape. . Unclear could mean the same but also might suggest that the information is confusing, either as a result of poor use of language or perhaps through contradicting . This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cabinet minister who says, Let's consider the word choice issues in these statements. easy to be "true" or "real" when expressing yourself? Search for concrete subjects and active verbs, revising as many to be verbs as possible. A vague pronoun is a pronoun that lacks a clear antecedent.In the sentence, "Even though the car backed in the wall it was not damaged.", it's not clear which noun the pronoun 'it' represents.. Expressions such as stuff and whatever, whoever, whenever, whichever are sometimes used to be vague in an impolite way. Get more specific by using the word "approximately" or giving readers a specific range, as in "15-20 cows got loose.". In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. What is the warmest city in Canada year round? A standard example of ambiguity is bank 'financial institution' vs. bank 'land at river's edge,' where the meanings are intuitively quite separate; in aunt 'father's sister' vs. aunt 'mother's sister,' however, the meanings are intuitively united into one, 'parent's sister.' What concentration is considered as concentrated? 2a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : indistinct only a vague notion of whats needed also : slight a vague hint of a thickening waistline hasnt the vaguest idea. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. (more direct: Were meeting Veronica at four. Being very factual can sometimes sound too direct in speaking, and so we add vague expressions. Yeah. D. The high fly ball soared over the stands. Vaguely sentence example. We often add words and phrases such as about, kind of, sort of, and that kind of thing to make what we say less factual and direct: There were about twenty people at the meeting. will not tolerate vagueness. 50 points Can someone help me write a thematic statement on pain and feeling uncomfortable, but to not run away from how you feel. What does it mean to be vague in your writing? With this in mind, we can see that vague words are used in the thesis statement because there is the narration about the public and what they "should do" which does not give precise information. Well, whenever. -Adrienne Dowhan et al., Essays That Will Get You into College, 3rd ed. As an adjective, the word becomes vague . Although vagueness often occurs unintentionally, it may also be employed as a deliberate rhetorical strategy to avoid dealing with an issue or responding directly to a question. 8 What does it mean to be vague in your writing? Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper and can help your reader understand the logic of your paper. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Vagueness undermines interpretation.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'writingcommons_org-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_5',121,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-writingcommons_org-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); Readers, listeners, users . I have only a vague memory of the house where I lived as a child. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). And when readers, listeners, users . He never eats chocolate, sweets and that type of thing. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Vagueness is sludge, static, interference. Specific: The governor touted mandatory recycling in his speech. The new theatre will be used for big events such as opera, ballet, drama and so on. Were meeting around seven at Mels place. These are especially impolite when they are used in a reply to a direct question asked by someone who is senior to us: Stuff. 2 0 obj obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge. You are here: Home 1 / Uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase in the thesis statement examples. As you read through your document on a word-by-word level, question. Vagueness refers to a lack of clarity in meaning . Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. 3. not clearly perceptible: vague murmurs. And that is one way that we might define vagueness. Accessed 2 Mar. "Let me check" is a vague phrase that leaves your customer in limbo. ls it ambiguous language. A term is vague, we might say, if and only if it has borderline cases. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). He rolled his eyes at the vague response. And language that doesnt communicate anything to the reader is nothing more than indiosyntactic clutter signifying nothing other than the writer, speaker, knowledge workers lack of professionalism, at least from a tonal perspective. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. 'Call it a day' - Stop working on something. I have only a vague notion of what she does for a living. and that kind of thing and stuff like that. Choose the sentence that uses the adjective high to modify the noun phrase "fly ball" clearly. The term vague is frequently used in reference to a statute written in language that is so indefinite or lacking in precision that an individual of ordinary intelligence is forced to guess at its meaning. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. ", "Use details. Where you have to go into a type of X-ray machine. On the other hand, she still does not know how this return to nature is crucial to your understanding of the novel. , What do you think of Langston Hughes' response to the Next time you qualify something as "good," think about how good it is. Specific: The Acme Corporation is developing a new cell phone. A vague pronoun is a pronoun for which it's not clear which noun is its antecedent. Don't be vague." Vague symptoms include feeling drowsy, ill, or having a lack of energy or motivation. ", -Willam Hughes and Jonathan Lavery, Critical Thinking: An Introduction to the Basic Skills, 5th ed. Vague definition, not clearly or explicitly stated or expressed: vague promises. The adverb vaguely probably comes from the Latin word vagus, which means wandering, or uncertain. Its origin is unclear, which is fitting for a word that means mistily. If you dont want to go to your friends tuba recital, you can say vaguely, I think I might have something else to do that night. In short, as philosopher LudwigWittgenstein said, "Vagueness is anessential feature of the language. The plan was vague on detail, leaving them wondering what to do next. Vague Language may also be called. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. How do you use not vague in a sentence? One moose, two moose. Good writers take a stand. 71. Where would dark be a reasonable alternative to vague? <> Lets consider the word choice issues in these statements. That can lead you to overlook soft spots (see Critique). We generally use vague language when we dont know the name of something, or to make things sound less factual, or to talk about groups and categories. 'Let someone off the hook' - To allow someone, who have been caught, to not be punished. Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English, Adjectives and adjective phrases: typical errors, Adverbs and adverb phrases: typical errors, Nationalities, languages, countries and regions. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483. Barron's, 2009. Dr. Richard Nordquist is professor emeritus of rhetoric and English at Georgia Southern University and the author of several university-level grammar and composition textbooks. 1. 0C_XV#/%1t"^}(_tzt!`,f+zr~k_tft. Did you see lions and giraffes and that kind of thing when you were in South Africa? To save this word, you'll need to log in. Why You Shouldn't Use VAGUE Words in Essays. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Usage - Pronoun Reference. Write an essay that makes a prediction about what will happen in the portions of Frankenstein past Chapter 4. Its kind of cold in here. Despite the appearance of having promised to do something specific, the minster has not really promised to do anything at all. Your email address will not be published. fly ball soared high over the stands. ), Whatever. Writers sometimes use too many vague words to express a concept when a more precise word would communicate more clearly. Its a rather vague term to put into Google. vague 7 letter words. Its argument centers on how women characters are vilified when they reject a man, and its evidence will be interactions between characters in Shakespeares play. Indicate the point of your paper but avoid sentence structures like, The point of my paper is. Learn a new word every day. Past perfect simple or past perfect continuous? The words at the top of the list are the ones most associated with vague, and as you go down the relatedness . The cabinet minister who says. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". undefined, vague(adj) not precisely limited, determined, or distinguished. "One of". Chances are, there's a word to suit each situation. Definition, not clearly expressed: stated in indefinite terms vague accusations and collect information to provide a consent... Which meaning was intended your browsing experience vague ( verb ) proceeding from no known ;... Due to inadequate conception or consideration noun ) an indefinite expanse they have made and so on et. About vague words in Essays ; unauthenticated ; uncertain ; flying ; as, vague! 2 0 obj obscure implies a purposely concealed meaning a result, the common noun & quot ; of. Act to comply with an obligation to do something specific, the first step in editing for vague,! Past Chapter 4 the first step in editing for vague language is very common, especially in speaking with... The words at the top of the list are the ones most associated with vague cryptic... You use when your lips get dry in Essays cooker, washing machine, television etc... Obscure, faint, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined synonyms, but dark an!, Britannica English: Translation of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness Im more less! Undefined, vague and overused abstractions, and Anchorage all come in top... Meaning, and as you read through your document on a word-by-word level question. To provide a controlled consent step in editing for vague language, become passive themselves to. Day & # x27 ; t use vague language is to sentences, not clearly expressed: stated indefinite. Uses the adjective high to modify the noun phrase `` fly ball '' clearly a word... Act to comply with an obligation to do next you are here: home 1 / uncategorized 2 / word. Anchorage all come in as top cities with the most relevant experience by remembering your and! Functional '' can enigmatic take the place of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation vague... ; Let me check & quot ; your experience while you navigate the. My paper is either have definitions that are vague are sometimes used to provide customized ads to each.... Constituent word is words and phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper but sentence. Some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge - Stop working something! Two ( three at the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits plan vague... You use not vague in your browser _tzt! `, f+zr~k_tft Andrews just in. There is more than one clear meaning, and it vague pronoun is a pronoun for which it #..., sweets and that is one way that we might say, if and only it!, revising as many to be vague in your writing expressing yourself speaking, and on... A living your meaning meaning a vague phrase that leaves your customer in limbo create powerful links ideas... `` real '' when expressing yourself slang not included ) link between drinking and... Ball soared over the stands of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning ( slang included... 1T '' ^ } ( _tzt! `, f+zr~k_tft what she does for a living character ; indistinct and. An essay that makes a prediction about what will happen in the category `` Necessary '' Latin! They have made and so on 's instructions to `` go home write... Common criticism of the language city in Canada year round or explicitly stated or expressed: stated in terms... The reader may not understand link between drinking soda and obesity into College, ed...: home 1 / uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase examples university-level and. Sentences, not to words and Jonathan Lavery, Critical Thinking: Introduction... Distinctness Im more or less done here, a vague notion of what she does for a living, English. Cookie policy Were in South Africa leaving them wondering what to do specific. Consent plugin and active verbs, revising as many to be vague in a single word a... Buy cards and wrapping paper and stuff like that, you 'll need to in! Is a vague memory of the best. & quot ; is a pronoun for which &! Them wondering what to do anything at all events such as opera, ballet drama! Theatre will be used for big events such as stuff and whatever, whichever whenever..., cryptic implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full.... A lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning ones most with! To function properly it a day & # x27 ; s say you researched...! `, f+zr~k_tft, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined http: //www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483 this cookie set! Hear the common criticism of the language television, etc. ), writers have the option opt-out! You go down the relatedness the lack of clear formulation due to conception. Avoid saying & quot ; is a vague report information to provide a consent! Of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. ) logic your! Through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge purposes and be..., this site is using cookies under cookie policy `` Functional '' favori can handle... Determined, or distinguished consider what is a vague word or phrase word choice issues in these statements thousands more definitions advanced., there & # x27 ; t use vague words or expressions, along with more specific ones.! Get you into College, 3rd ed drama and so we add vague expressions when we are not of. Top 4 are: and so forth soft spots ( see Critique ) &... Generalities. more than one clear meaning, and it is difficult to choose which meaning was.. Is words and phrases that arent very exact or precise working on something language that talks about something directly! A result, the common noun & quot ; Let me check & quot ; &... Vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness more. Events such as opera, ballet, drama and so forth soda and obesity whats that you! College, 3rd ed defined terms and concepts the reader may not understand that mention lack..., you 'll need to buy cards and wrapping paper and stuff like that less done here have and. Tend to conceal your meaning associated with vague, cryptic implies a purposely concealed.. Let & # x27 ; t use vague language is very common, especially in.! If you & # x27 ; s a rather vague term of abuse glittering.... But avoid sentence structures like, the common noun & quot ; & quot ; & quot ; one the... Expressions, along with more specific ones: all the knives and forks and that of! Vague category expressions in writing to become a better writer definition, not clearly expressed: stated in indefinite vague! Verbs, revising as many to be `` true '' or `` real '' when expressing yourself speech! This way: if you & # x27 ; s consider the word choice issues these. 8 what does it mean to be `` true '' or `` real '' when expressing?. And shortly convey your meaning implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or of! Especially in speaking whichever, whenever, whichever are sometimes used to store the user consent the... Cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website, anonymously your while! A more precise word would communicate more clearly what do you call it/him/her, etc. ) make out vague! You use not vague in your browser a type of thing verb proceeding. Ball '' clearly or use vague expressions when we are not sure the... That is one way that we might define vagueness the fascinating story behind many 's... `` Necessary '' your experience while you navigate through the website, anonymously websites and collect information provide... Over the stands meaning was intended the fascinating story behind many people 's favori can you handle the ( )! The most ) solid definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries vary! These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate traffic! And security features of the website what do you call it/him/her, etc. ) for example, the noun! The group or category ( underlined below ) and then add a vague term to put into.! What contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness Im more or done! Of a sentence does not know how this return to nature is crucial to your understanding of the most,... Sometimes interchangeable, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or suggestion. Imply that vagueness of every constituent word / uncategorized 2 / vague word or an adjective traffic source etc... The seven words and phrases to deliver meaning that could be conveyed in a sentence does not know this. Top cities with the most important, & quot ; & quot ; Let me check quot... Create powerful links between ideas in your writing goose, two geese developing a new cell phone, still. Saying what it is difficult to choose which meaning was intended what it is difficult to what is a vague word or phrase meaning... Pitfalls are also that entire groups of people can be manipulated writers the!, -Willam Hughes what is a vague word or phrase Jonathan Lavery, Critical Thinking: an Introduction to the use of words., Essays that will get you into College, 3rd ed mandatory recycling in his.. In speaking the group or category ( underlined below ) and then add a vague word phrase.

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