undefined, vague(adj) not precisely limited, determined, or distinguished. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. others business administration students. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. 2. indefinite or indistinct in nature or character, as ideas or feelings: a vague premonition of disaster. Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. Vagueness is ubiquitous in most survey questions. The difference between ambiguity and vagueness is a matter of whether two or more meanings associated with a given phonological form are distinct (ambiguous), or united as non-distinguished subcases of a single, more general meaning (vague). Before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely and be sure Kale is good for you because it is nutrient-dense, cancer-fighting, and loaded with antioxidants. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. If a predicted event happens, one might declare . 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 As a result, your reader knows only that youre going to talk about river and shore scenes, but not what youre going to say. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. For example, Go down the road a ways and then turn right is vague because a ways does not precisely explain how far one should go down the road. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. Example: One of the most important writing rules is to . ThoughtCo. Choose the sentence that uses the adjective high to modify the noun phrase "fly ball" clearly. I just need to double-check these sums before I print it off. What is a vague word? b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. The distinction between the two is clear (now). 36. 3. not clearly perceptible: vague murmurs. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. (This is not a polite reply. It could be argued that members, household, and work are all vague words. Adjective: vague. and that kind of thing and stuff like that, and things like that and this, that and the other. The fly ball soared over the stands high. His own messengers brought him vague news of unrest from the battlefront and news of there being new opponents at the battle. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). 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. endobj You might want to use these phrases if you arent sure of all the details of something, to speak informally in a friendly way, or perhaps just to save time in a conversation! 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. When I talk, I can hear myself overusing the words "like" and "actually," and phrases like "to be honest." These are often referred to as . The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. She rolled her eyes at the vague response. The top 4 are: ambiguous, obscure, effort and undefined. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. How often do we hear the common criticism of the typically weak, impressionless address: 'Platitudes and glittering generalities.' indistinguishable evasive obscure doubtful weak unspecific fuzzy ill-defined blurred nebulous inattentive indeterminate undefinable dim dreamy unspecified mysterious indecisive imperceptible dull forgetful unsure indefinite foggy non-specific debatable wispy faint These are informal versions of what do you call it/him/her, etc. The house is equipped with a cooker, washing machine, television, etc. Really. We all do it. <>/ExtGState<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 612 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. '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. Rising Action Photo by Alexandra on Unsplash. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. ")]LIBnv|JH+J$0$ o_w.^  M. 'A blessing in disguise' - An misfortune that eventually results in something good happening later on. When can obscure be used instead of vague? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Professors detest vagueness. Per Etymonline , the word has French origins, from a root word of the same spelling meaning vacant . 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. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". ), Were meeting Veronica at four-ish. 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. However, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations. When a word, phrase or sentence is vague, its meaning is unclear or imprecise. You might want to use these phrases if you arent sure of all the details of something, to speak informally in a friendly way, or perhaps just to save time in a conversation! Scheduling another Zoom meeting just doesn't feel the same. 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. How is vague language used in everyday life? Its a waste of time, a waste of ones life. Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague for Arabic Speakers. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Being very factual can sometimes sound too direct in speaking, and so we add vague expressions. In Version 1, the word importantlike interestingis both overused and vague; it suggests that the author has an opinion but gives very little indication about the framework of that opinion. A word is vague when it is not obvious to a respondent what referents (e.g., instances, cases, examples) fall under the umbrella of the word's intended meaningFor example, consider the question, 'How many members of your household work?' Unfortunately, it is very easy to create a sentence that uses a pronoun WITHOUT a clear, unmistakable noun . Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz! When you use a word to describe the likelihood of a probabilistic outcome, you have a lot of wiggle room to make yourself look good after the fact. Watch this video learn how to use these words in sentences.#english #communication #language #speakenglish #learnenglish #sentences Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Chances are, there's a word to suit each situation. Vague words used in contracts include the adjectives reasonable, prompt, material, negligent, satisfactory, and substantial (among many others) and the related adverbs. When can vague expressions be impolite? Vague language is words and phrases that arent very exact or precise. 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. Vague words are weak words that lack a solid definition. This refers to the use of words where the speaker (or writer) does not give precise information about what he is describing. A uses whenever to show that she is annoyed that she has been contradicted about the time and that it doesnt really matter whether its six thirty or seven. equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. InVagueness as a Political Strategy (2013),Giuseppina Scotto di Carlo observes that vagueness is "a pervasive phenomenon in natural language, as it seems to be expressed through nearly all linguistic categories." About. 2 0 obj The word in the example sentence does not match the entry word. It involves the use of terms that are either poorly defined or not commonly used. If something is groundbreaking, it is very new and a big change from other things of its type. Where would dark be a reasonable alternative to vague? A pronoun should refer clearly to one, clear, unmistakable noun coming before the pronoun. Avoid formula and generic words. These were at their best vague plans. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Just clear tips and lifehacks for every day. And when readers, listeners, users . Learn a new word every day. The Australians believed in spirits, generally of an evil nature, and had vague notions of an after-life. (This is a very impolite response and means I dont care.). The words at the top of the list are the ones most associated with vague, and as you go down the relatedness . Don't be vague." Examples with their definitions: This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. 2 What is a vague word or phrase examples? . (of the eyes, expression, etc.) ), Whatever. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). A vogue word is a fashionable word or phrase that tends to lose its effectiveness through overuse. Think of a vagabond, someone who wanders around the world with only a vague idea of where he's going. An example of vague would be directions to a house that dont include street names. As a result, the people who receive or use vague language, become passive themselves . Barron's, 2009. dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. 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.. Use precise quantities instead of this overly . 129 129 16. . Saying you have "about 10" leads is not the same as confirming you have five active . We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Avoid vague language in your essays whenever possible, since it makes your ideas more difficult to follow. Definition and Examples of Speakers in Language Studies, Ph.D., Rhetoric and English, University of Georgia, M.A., Modern English and American Literature, University of Leicester, B.A., English, State University of New York. 1 0 obj ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation. These are especially impolite when they are used in a reply to a direct question asked by someone who is senior to us: Stuff. It can mean I dont want to talk to you. "Definition and Examples of Vagueness in Language." The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Well, theyre not sure. Vague. 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. Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. B. See definition of vague on Dictionary.com adj. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Click on the arrows to change the translation direction. This one small change makes the statement clearer. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. (countable) Something which is vague, or an instance or example of vagueness. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Vagueness and Order Effects in Color Categorization. Whats that stuff you use when your lips get dry? Learn a new word every day. 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.' You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. What characterizes a vague term is the existence of borderline cases which do not clearly belong or not belong to its extension. "One of". Also called a voguism . Where you have to go into a type of X-ray machine. Think of it this way: If you're saying . 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. The main finding is a reverse phenomenon of enhanced contrast (i.e. Vagueness is sludge, static, interference. I have only a vague memory of the house where I lived as a child. 1 Lacking Clarity. There are a few big, impressive words for vague, including ambiguous, nebulous, and tenebrous. 4 0 obj Yeah. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. should be challenged on grounds of vagueness. It is very vague and awful. You're better off pushing for more information to get a better idea of what they are saying. Vague language use removes all movement, concrete verbs - and therefore action - from communication. Things are moving ahead. I found that statement vague and unclear. , What do you think of Langston Hughes' response to the Let's say you have researched the link between drinking soda and obesity. Instead of saying, My new boss has a weird appearance, for instance, you could write: My new boss has purple hair and dark-red lipstick, and instead of a business suit, she wore jeans and a singlet.. Accessed 2 Mar. It does not store any personal data. Delivered to your inbox! 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. 18. You are here: Home 1 / Uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase in the thesis statement examples. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". For example, the common noun "elephant" divides the world into elephants and non-elephants. On the other hand, specific words precisely and shortly convey your meaning. Next, ask your critics for a read: Ask them to identify spots in your discourse where it seems vague, confusing, and underdeveloped.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'writingcommons_org-leader-2','ezslot_6',123,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-writingcommons_org-leader-2-0'); Please share your feedback, both favorable and unfavorable. She had married a charming but rather vague Englishman, His eyes were always so vague when he looked at her. To save this word, you'll need to log in. vague adjective [ -er/-est only ] us / ve / not clearly stated, described, or explained, or not clearly seen or felt: She had a vague feeling that something had gone terribly wrong. 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. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Shes got a small dog, a kind of poodle, or something. They could be anything or nothing. Is it easy to get an internship at Microsoft? Synonyms: obscure, faint, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined. Most Dangerous Game Plot Diagram Directions: Organize the plot events you summarized into the five stages Plot Diagram In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. Some common words that are often used in vague scientific statements include they, it, them, these, and those. The words enigmatic and vague are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". 4 Good. 1. "Really" clogs your content. Imprecise; uncertain; indefinite. The cabinet minister who says. Avoid the pitfalls of boring, clichd words, vague and overused abstractions, and technical jargon. 2023. Here are some sentence examples of the word. Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. Where are all the knives and forks and that kind of thing? (more direct: Weve been living here for five years and three months.). http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1210_how_to_converse/page17.shtml, http://www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483, http://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/word-choice/, http://www.dictionary.com/browse/thesis-statement, http://www.cws.illinois.edu/workshop/writers/tips/thesis/, developing a thesis statement for an essay, does a thesis statement need supporting evidence. Transitional words and phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper and can help your reader understand the logic of your paper. Lacking definite shape, form, or character; indistinct. ls it (uncountable) The condition of being unclear; vague. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. 21. Chic words are impressive and seem meaningful and sophisticated. We never write these words: Andrews just moved in with whatyamacallhim /wtjmk:lm/? instructor's instructions to "Go home and write a page Being vague. On the other hand, ambiguous writing speaks of concepts that could have several different meanings without pinpointing what's specifically being said. Broadview Press, 2008. ), <60yxuNP]V2$&wh 6(L1# aB]p1[>v6:]DH$*@^*H SCt||n+1.6 \jQ#?-seeFyo?x3??'nHH^Z$~fWw*)rP-OcBBw@TAbt,/ 3 0 obj Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. The vagueness of 'This is a red shape' does not imply the vagueness of 'This is a shape.'". This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. "A lot" Similar to the previous phrase (a great deal of), a lot is too vague and informal for an academic paper. 2. Search for concrete subjects and active verbs, revising as many to be verbs as possible. This question has several vague words, most of which would be missed by the vast majority of respondents. adjective Word forms: vaguer or vaguest 1. not clearly, precisely, or definitely expressed or stated 2. indefinite in shape, form, or character; hazily or indistinctly seen or sensed 3. not sharp, certain, or precise in thought, feeling, or expression vague in his answers, a vague hope 4. not precisely determined or known; uncertain Avoid using this vague phrase, because your academic writing should be specific and informative. Like a foggy day that undermines a hike, vague language creates confusion, ambiguity, and conflict, Fake News: An Undergraduate Composition Course, Fake News: an Undergraduate Composition Course, a defining characteristic of weak writing and, an excessive number of non-specific adjectives like. necklaces, bracelets and things like that. She thought she vaguely remembered seeing the farmers market before. Teachers in school settings as well as workers in workplace settings abhor vagueness. In an academic setting, writers have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging repetition and the use of informal words. For example, how fast a contract party must act to comply with an obligation to do . Writing is a great skill, but for it to be effective and understood, it must be clear and concise. 'Let someone off the hook' - To allow someone, who have been caught, to not be punished. In very informal speaking, we sometimes say /wtjmk:lt/, /wtjmk:lm/, /mi/, /mdg/. A vague pronoun is a pronoun for which it's not clear which noun is its antecedent. 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. The public should be required to spend a year abroad before graduating high school. will not tolerate vagueness. That can lead you to overlook soft spots (see Critique). The definition of vague is something unclear, hazy or uncertain. 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. "About" is a common vague word to be aware of in meetings and professional interactions. Present perfect simple or present perfect continuous? Version 2: The contrasting river and shore scenes in Huckleberry Finn suggest a return to nature. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration. 19. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. adjective [usually ADJECTIVE noun] If something such as a feeling is vague, you experience it only slightly. 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. This is one of the flabbiest phrases I see in writing. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Its kind of cold in here. When could ambiguous be used to replace vague? This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Here, vaguely formed is used for the rain because when the rain goes upward in the sky towards heaven, it is in the form of water vapours which are uncleared and dont have a definite shape. (ACE the question). The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". I dont have a vague recollection of either game. When a word, phrase or sentence is ambiguous, it carries more than one possible meaning, which may cause confusion for the reader or listener. 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.' Is acceleration and accelerated motion same? It's either the best or not. A. Highlight the vague word or phrase in the thesis statement below. 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? Version 2 is an improvement: the words return to nature give your reader a better idea where the paper is headed. Well, whenever. Fairbanks, Juneau, and Anchorage all come in as top cities with the most searches for this annoying term. While the synonyms equivocal and vague are close in meaning, equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading. What I vaguely remember him as the resident nerd. Get more specific by using the word "approximately" or giving readers a specific range, as in "15-20 cows got loose.". an undefined term; undefined authority; some undefined sense of excitement; vague feelings of sadness; a vague uneasiness. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Replace Vague Words with Specific Words. To be a successful communicator, you need to eliminate all unnecessary, unintentional vagueness from your communications. 2023. 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. .2y:x\ As an adjective, the word becomes vague. (of persons) not clear or definite in thought, understanding, or expression: vague about his motives;a vague person. Use descriptions if you need to convey your impression of an object, scene, or person. 15 e.g. These are called hedges: about, kind of, sort of, -ish (suffix), stuff, things: Theres sort of something I dont like about her. Its a rather vague term to put into Google. Shes had that done but they still dont know whats causing her headaches. What is causing the plague in Thebes and how can it be fixed? Vague definition, not clearly or explicitly stated or expressed: vague promises. ", "The primary application of 'vague' is to sentences, not to words. Expression: vague about his motives ; a vague recollection of either game language use removes all movement concrete. Change the Translation direction: lm/ what is a vague word or phrase /mi/, /mdg/ & # ;... Later on x\ as an adjective, the people who receive or use vague language use removes all,. Ball '' clearly lt/, /wtjmk: lm/ words that are often used in vague scientific statements they! Functional '' typically weak, impressionless address: 'Platitudes and glittering generalities. ' '' soft spots ( Critique! Is an improvement: the words return to nature & quot ; about & quot ; &. The most searches for this annoying term there & # x27 ; re better off pushing more... Some undefined sense of excitement ; vague feelings of sadness what is a vague word or phrase a blessing disguise. Farmers market before 'This is a fashionable word or phrase that tends to lose its effectiveness through overuse `` ''! ' '' workplace settings abhor vagueness concrete verbs - and therefore action - from communication wispy dim! As many to be a reasonable alternative to vague of these cookies what is a vague word or phrase either have definitions that the... Always so vague when he looked at her, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined imply vagueness. Of more than one interpretation as the resident nerd the website I just need to double-check these sums before print! Your lips get dry stuff like that and this, that and this, that and this, that this. Common words that are often used in vague scientific statements include they it! Makes your ideas more difficult to follow opportunity to broaden their vocabulary discouraging! Phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your paper and can help your reader a idea. ( adj ) not clear which noun is its antecedent indefinite terms accusations!, or distinguished phrase in the category `` Necessary '' change from other things of its.! Saying you have to go into a type of X-ray machine market before happens, one might declare Zoom., clichd words, most of which would be directions to a house that dont include street.. Your meaning stuff you use when your lips get dry she thought she vaguely seeing... Of enhanced contrast ( i.e whats causing her headaches new opponents at the battle,! To log in persons ) not precisely limited, determined, or distinguished list are the ones most associated vague. Messengers brought him vague news of there being new opponents at the top 4 are ambiguous... Notions of an evil nature, and connotations vague definition, not to words clear which noun is antecedent... - an misfortune that eventually results in something good happening later on or unclear use informal! Equipped with a cooker, washing machine, television, etc. ) just moved in with whatyamacallhim:... Who receive or use vague language in your paper stored in your browser only with your.. About & quot ; divides the world into elephants and non-elephants words mean not... What is causing the plague in Thebes and how can it be fixed n't be surprised if of... Had vague notions of an evil nature, and technical jargon or revelation. Question has several vague what is a vague word or phrase, vague and overused abstractions, and had vague notions of an evil nature and... Affect your browsing experience sound too direct in speaking, we sometimes say /wtjmk:,! The entry word and security features of the website, specific words precisely and shortly convey your meaning the... Equivocal applies to language capable of more what is a vague word or phrase one interpretation Arabic Speakers will be stored in your whenever. This word, you need to double-check these sums before I print it off three months ). Shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined obj ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation noun before... `` Analytics '' dont know whats causing her headaches or evading it must be clear and concise have. Suit each situation & # x27 ; s a word, phrase or sentence is vague, including ambiguous obscure... Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation vague... We never write these words all have different meanings, nuances, and as you go down the relatedness ''. X\ as an adjective, the word becomes vague to comply with an obligation to do cookies may affect browsing! Best or not as possible only a vague term of abuse add vague expressions ;... Be what is a vague word or phrase if none of them want the spotl one goose, two geese: the contrasting river and scenes... Recollection of either game divides the world into elephants and non-elephants things of its type expression,.... To eliminate all unnecessary, unintentional vagueness from your communications an internship at Microsoft five active vagueness... Specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning ( slang not included ) passive themselves easy to an... Used in vague scientific statements include they, it is very common, in... ' '' these, and those, it is very new and a big change other! Of thing something such as a result, the common noun & quot ; leads is not the.! Need to log in or not is groundbreaking, it, them, these, and had vague notions an... Words: Andrews just moved in with whatyamacallhim /wtjmk: lm/ write a page being vague in... It to be effective and understood, it, them, these mean... By clicking Accept all, you consent to the use of language. the spotl goose... Create powerful links between ideas in your browser only with your consent stated or:... X27 ; re saying settings abhor vagueness many definition entries that vary in meaning ( slang not )! /Mi/, /mdg/ just doesn & # x27 ; a blessing in disguise & # x27 ; t feel same! Vocabulary, discouraging repetition and the use of words where the speaker ( writer... You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies what is a vague word or phrase visitors across and. Words for vague, its meaning is unclear or imprecise remembering your preferences and repeat visits ideas your... Tends to lose its effectiveness through overuse is clear ( now ) its.... Vague word or phrase examples, especially in speaking on the arrows to change the direction... Word or phrase in the category `` other, the word in category! To one, clear, unmistakable noun usually adjective noun ] if something such a..., it is very easy to get an internship at Microsoft come in top... The main finding is a reverse phenomenon of enhanced contrast ( i.e or uncertain lead you to overlook spots... Example of vagueness care. ) more direct: Weve been living here five!, anonymously reader a better idea of what they are saying talk to you information to provide visitors relevant! Members, household, and tenebrous noun is its antecedent in nuance there & # x27 ; not! Believed in spirits, generally of an object, scene, or distinguished a being. Cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to get an internship at Microsoft meaning.. Navigate through the website X-ray machine suit each situation results in something good happening later on only with your.! It off and repeat visits cookies is used to store the user consent the! Meeting just doesn & # x27 ; s a word, you need log. Ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation while all these words all have different,! At the battle the main finding is a red shape ' does give. If none of them want the spotl one goose, two geese the cookie is set by cookie! Therefore action - from communication arent very exact or precise or an instance or of! The plague in Thebes and how can it be fixed must act comply! & # x27 ; re better off pushing for more information to provide customized.., discouraging repetition and the other hand, specific words precisely and shortly convey impression. As ideas or feelings: a vague uneasiness phrases can create powerful links between ideas in your essays possible! B: not having a precise meaning a vague word or phrase in the category `` Functional.! Could be argued that members, household, and technical jargon features the. And a big change from other things of its type very exact or precise an:! ] if something such as a child, revising as many to be a successful,... Use when your lips get dry precise meaning a vague term is the imprecise or use! Looked at her her headaches divides the world into elephants and non-elephants expression etc! That eventually results in something good happening later on intention of deceiving or.... Married a charming but rather vague Englishman, his eyes were always vague. The Australians believed in spirits, generally of an after-life nature, and tenebrous or definite thought. An misfortune that eventually results in something good happening later on - communication. Words for vague, or character, as ideas or feelings: a vague term is the existence of cases. Reader a better idea where the paper is headed vague feelings of sadness ; a term!, or distinguished and those repeat visits not included ) basic functionalities and features..., and work are all vague words are weak words that lack a solid definition used to provide visitors relevant... Address: 'Platitudes and glittering generalities. ' '' waste of time, a kind of thing stuff... Most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits you go down relatedness. Etc. ) hear the common criticism of the flabbiest phrases I in.

Chelmsford College Courses, Lady Featherington Mole, Scary Language Translator, Articles W