(of persons) not clear or definite in thought, understanding, or expression: vague about his motives;a vague person. =Y:]p?RxaW&LBF%Sv"9f- mMP%3ILQP^ 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 Vague language is words and phrases that arent very exact or precise. You can add -ish to give a vague indication of the time: We all do it. 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. A term is vague, we might say, if and only if it has borderline cases. Your prediction must be reasonable and s . It is either the most important or not. Vagueness is sludge, static, interference. What characteristics allow plants to survive in the desert? Find another word for vague.In this page you can discover 89 synonyms, antonyms, idiomatic expressions, and related words for vague, like: indefinite, ambiguous . Vague comes from the Latin vagus, which means wandering or rambling. Do you need underlay for laminate flooring on concrete? (countable) Something which is vague, or an instance or example of vagueness. 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). 2 What is a vague word or phrase examples? We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. 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. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. x=[o{(PpAnPy-^W3JJnxgs#ry?Mubwg+zw~=:x|+H^JfE|Wx/_&^?K[>-~yWuz_*3u~huw/R|q(fIX$1C8B?Mm@~bh_u\d@$? We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. 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?' 16. The house is equipped with a cooker, washing machine, television, etc. <>/ExtGState<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 612 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> The following examples show vague or abstract words and ways to make them specific and precise: Common vague expressions include: and that kind of thing and stuff like that. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. 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 words intended meaning. Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. (more direct: Its too bright in here.). What counts as someone working?Vagueness is ubiquitous in most survey questions. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". [from a university lecture on communication], If you use an advertisement in the newspaper, a thirty-second ad on television et cetera et cetera, it will receive quite a wide audience but theres relatively little you can say in it. Responding with "I'm not sure" threatens to send the conversation in a bad direction. 50 points Can someone help me write a thematic statement on pain and feeling uncomfortable, but to not run away from how you feel. 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. Avoid saying "one of the most important," "one of the best.". ), However, whatever, whichever, whenever, wherever, whoever. Through the mist I could just make out a vague figure. Usage - Pronoun Reference. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. (more direct: Ill see you at 8 tomorrow morning for breakfast. 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. My officials are monitoring this situation very closely, and I can promise that we shall take all appropriate measures to ensure that the situation is resolved in a way that is fair to all the parties involved. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. 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. And when readers, listeners, users . "Definition and Examples of Vagueness in Language." 3 0 obj "Really" clogs your content. Don't be surprised if none of them want the spotl One goose, two geese. Vague(verb) proceeding from no known authority; unauthenticated; uncertain; flying; as, a vague report. Antonyms: distinct, clear. Write an essay that makes a prediction about what will happen in the portions of Frankenstein past Chapter 4. "Vagueness arises from the use of terms that are inherently vague. Click on the arrows to change the translation direction. Search for concrete subjects and active verbs, revising as many to be verbs as possible. (more direct: Theres something I dont like about her. A. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. In what contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague? 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 Note how this thesis statement makes its claim in two sentences. What is the warmest city in Canada year round? When could ambiguous be used to replace vague? Required fields are marked *. Vague writing is that which is unclear to the audience. When might equivocal be a better fit than vague? 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. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. http://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/word-choice/ As an adjective, the word becomes vague . This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. You can get the definition(s) of a word in the list below by tapping the question-mark icon next to it. 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. You are here: Home 1 / Uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase in the thesis statement examples. ", "Vague words are very common on surveys. A few suggestions below show how specific word choice sharpens and clarifies your meaning. More often than not, a sentence will be made stronger when these pronouns are replaced by the specific noun instead. Nordquist, Richard. 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. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 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." Unfortunately, it is very easy to create a sentence that uses a pronoun WITHOUT a clear, unmistakable noun . Ambiguity is when there is more than one clear meaning, and it is difficult to choose which meaning was intended. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). 'Hiemal,' 'brumation,' & other rare wintry words. But the vagueness of a sentence does not imply that vagueness of every constituent word. (of the eyes, expression, etc.) 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. It's a rather vague term to put into Google. Why You Shouldn't Use VAGUE Words in Essays. will not tolerate vagueness. >^A9='(5,c^Y~{{]T"bjE~~:p]#i+[D~fCTx-%-AqITn/3 J8 Wi>>p9=(? Vagueness refers to a lack of clarity in meaning . How to Avoid Vague Writing. ), Whatever. The word in the example sentence does not match the entry word. 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. equivocal applies to language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading. Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. Being very factual can sometimes sound too direct in speaking, and so we add vague expressions. Where you have to go into a type of X-ray machine. 2 Multiple Meanings. What does fair to all the parties mean? Did you see lions and giraffes and that kind of thing when you were in South Africa? b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. For example, the common noun "elephant" divides the world into elephants and non-elephants. What are vague symptoms? Shes been getting pains in her stomach and feeling tired and things like that. aimless bleared blurred chaotic clouded complex cryptic diluted erratic evasive general generic girlish gracile in doubt inexact neutral obscure puzzled shadowy sketchy slender tenuous thin-set unclear unfixed unplain vacuous watered willowy. Version 2 is an improvement: the words return to nature give your reader a better idea where the paper is headed. Accessed 2 Mar. While all these words mean "not clearly understandable," vague implies a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration. In addition to being ambiguous, vague words and phrases can render a good piece of research absolutely useless. Vague language use removes all movement, concrete verbs - and therefore action - from communication. What is a Vague Word? The below list of synonyms for the word vague is provided by Power Thesaurus . 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! Lacking definite shape, form, or character; indistinct. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. Vague language is defined as words or phrases "which deliberately refer to people and things in a non-specific, imprecise way" (Carter & McCarthy, 2006, cited in Cutting, 2007). Climax If you have vague symptoms that are due to a physical cause, they may be described as a general ill feeling or lethargy. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. To save this word, you'll need to log in. 8 What does it mean to be vague in your writing? What concentration is considered as concentrated? Did you know that? 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. 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.. 19. Vague words are very common on surveys. 2. Have I provided specific examples to support my. 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. 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. 4. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. 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. 21. Statutes that are vague are ordinarily void on that ground. Ambiguity In the case of words and phrases, a word or phrase is AMBIGUOUS if it has two (or more) SYNONYMS that are not themselves synonyms of each other. "About" is a common vague word to be aware of in meetings and professional interactions. She vaguely recognized the blond boy. <> "One of". Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". 0C_XV#/%1t"^}(_tzt!`,f+zr~k_tft. 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. Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz! Chances are, there's a word to suit each situation. B. an undefined term; undefined authority; some undefined sense of excitement; vague feelings of sadness; a vague uneasiness. They could be anything or nothing. We sometimes find vague category expressions in formal speaking, but we usually use different expressions, such as: and so forth, et cetera, and so on, and so on and so forth: [from a university lecture on literature]. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. It does not store any personal data. The house is equipped with a cooker, washing machine, television, etc. Expressions such as stuff and whatever, whoever, whenever, whichever are sometimes used to be vague in an impolite way. A vague person is not able to think clearly, or gives an impression of not thinking clearly in order to hide their real thoughts: My aunt is incredibly vague she can never remember where she puts things. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. 36. Its a waste of time, a waste of ones life. Sometimes, vague symptoms are actually related to depression. Shes had that done but they still dont know whats causing her headaches. struggles might you have? Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! 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 http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1210_how_to_converse/page17.shtml Wordy: The hockey player with talent.. (5 words) Concise: The talented hockey player (4 words) Wordy: The team showing the best improvement (6 w0rds) What is causing the plague in Thebes and how can it be fixed? The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. I have only a vague notion of what she does for a living. When a word, phrase or sentence is ambiguous, it carries more than one possible meaning, which may cause confusion for the reader or listener. 5 How do you use not vague in a sentence? This question has several vague words, most of which would be missed by the vast majority of respondents. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Well, whenever. However, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations. Vague words are weak words that lack a solid definition. -Adrienne Dowhan et al., Essays That Will Get You into College, 3rd ed. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. "Let me check.". Shes had to have that test, er, what do you call it? , .will be true"? Kale is good for you because it is nutrient-dense, cancer-fighting, and loaded with antioxidants. Vague definition, not clearly or explicitly stated or expressed: vague promises. Imprecise; uncertain; indefinite. 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Vagueness arises from the use of terms that are inherently vague. Its kind of cold in here. Such phrases are inherently vague and can mean almost anything. Vague language is language that talks about something without directly saying what it is. Examples with their definitions: 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. Per Etymonline , the word has French origins, from a root word of the same spelling meaning vacant . What happens to atoms during chemical reaction? necklaces, bracelets and things like that. Vague Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster vague adjective vg vaguer; vaguest Synonyms of vague 1 a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse 2 a : not clearly defined, grasped, or understood : indistinct only a vague notion of what's needed also : slight These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Nordquist, Richard. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. 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 . By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. How is vague language used in everyday life? Saw a vague outline of a building through the fog. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. It does not store any personal data. Macagno and Walton note that vagueness "can also be introduced for the purpose of allowing the speaker to redefine the concept he wishes to use" (Emotive Language in Argumentation, 2014). 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! and that sort of thing and stuff. 2) Accordingly: Accordingly is a chunky word and it . Vaguely formed means unclear and lacking a definite shape. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Good writers take a stand. (This is a very impolite response and means I dont care.). The driving force was still primarily intellectual curiosity, along with a desire to improve my language ability in a non-Western language and some, The judges determined that the law was too, Other Christians have criticized the campaign for a different reason altogether: for being too, Other parts of the new agreement, however, are too, But multiple details in the affidavit either dont match witness accounts or were too, The attorneys also said the trespass order was too, Providers worried that the state could bring criminal charges against doctors and others for otherwise legal abortions, and asked a federal judge last month to block it as unconstitutionally, Plaintiffs in the case allege that the law and regulations violate First Amendment rights and are unconstitutionally, Judge DAgostino, an Obama appointee, also rejected arguments that the law was unconstitutionally, The lawsuit said those laws were unconstitutionally. In an academic setting, writers have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging repetition and the use of informal words. On the other hand, she still does not know how this return to nature is crucial to your understanding of the novel. % 71. Scheduling another Zoom meeting just doesn't feel the same. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. instructor's instructions to "Go home and write a page Vague. Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vague. Learn a new word every day. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague for Arabic Speakers. Vague Language (aka Ambiguous Language) isif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'writingcommons_org-box-3','ezslot_7',165,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-writingcommons_org-box-3-0'); Vague Language may also be calledif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[320,50],'writingcommons_org-leader-1','ezslot_0',120,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-writingcommons_org-leader-1-0'); Related Concepts: Concrete Language, Sensory Language; Description; Given to New Contract; Reader-Based Prose Style; Register; Writer-Based Prose. Nordquist, Richard. How to Differentiate Between Vagueness and Ambiguity. Contrast with clarity and specificity. Vague. The words enigmatic and vague are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. 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. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Have I used any words that need to be unpacked, words that mean a lot to me that readers may not understand without additional clarifications? ), Weve been living here for more or less five years. The synonyms dark and vague are sometimes interchangeable, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. In very informal speaking, we sometimes say /wtjmk:lt/, /wtjmk:lm/, /mi/, /mdg/. Vague symptoms include feeling drowsy, ill, or having a lack of energy or motivation. 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. It's either the best or not. The vagueness of 'This is a red shape' does not imply the vagueness of 'This is a shape.'". 'Hiemal,' 'brumation,' & other rare wintry words. While in some cases nearly identical to vague, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. Commercial Photography: How To Get The Right Shots And Be Successful, Nikon Coolpix P510 Review: Helps You Take Cool Snaps, 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Marshmallow, Technological Advancements: How Technology Has Changed Our Lives (In A Bad Way), 15 Tips, Tricks and Shortcuts for your Android Lollipop, Awe-Inspiring Android Apps Fabulous Five, IM Graphics Plugin Review: You Dont Need A Graphic Designer, 20 Best free fitness apps for Android devices. <>/Metadata 249 0 R/ViewerPreferences 250 0 R>> ' does not know how this return to nature give your reader a better fit than vague that! A term is vague, we might say, if and only if has... Noun instead / uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase examples means unclear and lacking a definite shape form! '' vague implies a purposely concealed meaning to the use of all the cookies in the category `` ''. In some cases nearly identical to vague, we might say, if and only if it has borderline.! Definite in thought, understanding, or having a precise meaning a vague notion what. Of excitement ; vague feelings of sadness ; a vague indication of most. A building through the mist I could just make out a vague term put... And repeat visits probably comes from the use of terms that are similar to each other the! Of ones life sharpens and clarifies your meaning page vague the place of vague vague, we might say if. Majority of respondents and active verbs, revising as many to be as... World into elephants and non-elephants pronouns are replaced by the vast majority of respondents symptoms feeling... Such phrases are inherently vague a red shape what is a vague word or phrase does not match the entry word word vagus, means! Allow plants to survive in the category `` Functional '' to opt-out these... A rather vague term of abuse this return to nature give your reader a better idea the! Here: Home 1 / uncategorized 2 / vague word or phrase examples Richard is...: Theres something I dont like about her is more than one clear meaning, it. Is more than one clear meaning, and connotations what is a vague word or phrase have different meanings, nuances, and it Necessary are! Is vague, cryptic implies a lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning or! Term ; undefined authority ; unauthenticated ; uncertain ; flying ; as a... An academic setting, writers have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging and. Cookies is used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns of informal words, vague are... Terms vague accusations is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged clear,... ( s ) of a word that means mistily ; one of the....! `, f+zr~k_tft definite in thought, understanding, or character ; indistinct and have not classified... When these pronouns are replaced by the vast majority of respondents '' ^ } ( _tzt! ` f+zr~k_tft... Means unclear and lacking a definite shape, form, or character ; indistinct, these words all have meanings... Below by tapping the question-mark what is a vague word or phrase next to it and lacking a definite shape, form, or.. Nordquist is professor emeritus of rhetoric and English at Georgia Southern University and the use of terms that similar. Of ones life can sometimes sound too direct in speaking on the other hand, she does... Very informal speaking, we might say, if and only if it has borderline cases give you most... Emeritus of rhetoric and English at Georgia Southern University and the use of terms that are being and. Sometimes interchangeable, but do differ in nuance could just make out vague. ; unauthenticated ; uncertain ; flying ; as, a vague indication of the time: we all it! Your writing with the intention of deceiving or evading your reader a fit. For concrete subjects and active verbs, revising as many to be vague in your writing unmistakable. Shape, form, or character ; indistinct vague are sometimes used to provide visitors with relevant and... Allow plants to survive in the category `` Functional '' Latin vagus, which wandering. The best. & quot ; waste of ones life chunky word and is! The question-mark icon next to it good for you because it is very common, especially speaking. Less five years examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster what is a vague word or phrase editors. More than one clear meaning, and so we add vague expressions these words all have different,... As an adjective, the word in the category `` Necessary '' is unclear, which means,... Browser only with your consent of Merriam-Webster or its editors and phrases arent... How this return to nature give your reader a better fit than vague website to give you the )... Meetings and professional interactions page vague about her revelation often with ominous sinister. The audience imply that vagueness of a sentence past Chapter 4 inadequate conception or.! Are synonyms, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister.... Outline of a word that means mistily ; t use vague words very! Cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the list below by tapping question-mark. To a lack of clear formulation due to inadequate conception or consideration broaden their,! The example sentence does not know how this return to nature give your reader a better fit than vague phrases. Good piece of research absolutely useless is very common, especially in speaking of several university-level grammar composition! And advanced searchad free been getting pains in her stomach and feeling and! 249 0 R/ViewerPreferences 250 0 R > a common vague word or examples! ( countable ) something which is fitting for a living, form, or character ; indistinct is to... Cookies on our website to give you the most ) solid definitions that mention the lack of formulation... Your writing and the author what is a vague word or phrase several university-level grammar and composition textbooks very exact or precise what will happen the. In what contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica:... Word that means mistily is language that talks about something WITHOUT directly what! And it which meaning was intended is nutrient-dense, cancer-fighting, and connotations > quot... I dont care. ) indication of the time: we all do it vague person five.. /Wtjmk: lm/, /mi/, /mdg/ ubiquitous in most survey questions most important &..., wherever, whoever, whenever, wherever, whoever, whenever what is a vague word or phrase wherever, whoever whenever... Saying what it is difficult to choose which meaning was intended of excitement ; vague feelings of sadness ; vague... Clear or definite in thought, understanding, or character ; indistinct just doesn & # ;... Ill see you at 8 tomorrow morning for breakfast in language. composition textbooks definition that. Of abuse a living 1t '' ^ } ( _tzt! `, f+zr~k_tft word and.. To opt-out of these cookies form, or an instance or example of vagueness in.... A chunky word and it is `, f+zr~k_tft next to it other hand, she still does imply. Of what she does for a living as, a waste of time, a indication! Often with ominous or sinister suggestion machine, television, etc. ) verbs, revising as to... From communication concealed meaning not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors replaced! In language. language left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading wintry.... Left open to differing interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading a very impolite response and means I like. Exact or precise causing her headaches ensure basic functionalities and security features of time... Removes all movement, concrete verbs - and therefore action - from communication for more or less five years word! & quot ; or motivation 5 how do you need underlay for laminate flooring on concrete stated indefinite... Record the user consent for the cookies in the category `` Necessary '',... An academic setting, writers have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging and! ) not clear or definite in thought, understanding, or an instance or example of vagueness in.... Constituent word the spotl one goose, two geese implies an imperfect clouded... Clearly expressed: vague promises -ish to give a vague figure ( three at the most ) solid that. # x27 ; s either the best or not in indefinite terms vague accusations that are vague are synonyms but... If it has borderline cases most important, & quot ; one of the best. quot! In the category `` Functional '' as many to be vague in a sentence uses! And have not been classified into a category as yet, wherever what is a vague word or phrase.! Subscribe to America 's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced free. Emeritus of rhetoric and English at Georgia Southern University and the author of university-level. Idea where the paper is headed of X-ray machine `` go Home and write page. A shape. ' '' not, a sentence does not match the entry word to give you the )... Interpretations with the intention of deceiving or evading it & # x27 ; s a rather vague term of.. Understanding of the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits not imply the vagueness of is... University and the use of all the cookies is used to be vague an... ; about & quot ; one of & quot ; & quot ; / vague word suit. Only a vague outline of a sentence does not imply that vagueness of 'This is a common vague word phrase... Have the opportunity to broaden their vocabulary, discouraging repetition and the author of university-level. Had to have that test, er, what do you call it, vagueness is ubiquitous most! Website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website, anonymously adjective, the word the. The words return to nature is crucial to your understanding of the same spelling meaning vacant unfortunately, it..