what is a vague word or phrase

Such phrases are inherently vague and can mean almost anything. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). Expressions such as stuff and whatever, whoever, whenever, whichever are sometimes used to be vague in an impolite way. Shes had that done but they still dont know whats causing her headaches. Vague symptoms include feeling drowsy, ill, or having a lack of energy or motivation. 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. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. 0 && stateHdr.searchDesk ? Vague language is words and phrases that arent very exact or precise. Vague language is very common, especially in speaking. Usage - Pronoun Reference. ), Its kind of bright in here. ), Whatever. an excessive number of non-specific adjectives like good, bad, okay, pretty, happy, and sad, which give an audience only a superficial and general sense of emotion or description. The new theatre will be used for big events such as opera, ballet, drama and so on. Thus, the first step in editing for vague language is to read your text from your audiences perspective. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Shes been getting pains in her stomach and feeling tired and things like that. Delivered to your inbox! 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. Vague comes from the Latin . 2023. " Vagueness arises from the use of terms that are inherently vague. Click on the arrows to change the translation direction. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". b : not having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse. Just clear tips and lifehacks for every day. 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. Vague language is language that talks about something without directly saying what it is. 3. not clearly perceptible: vague murmurs. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. Vagueness refers to a lack of clarity in meaning . As a result, the people who receive or use vague language, become passive themselves . But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Think of it this way: If you're saying . 71. undefined, vague(adj) not precisely limited, determined, or distinguished. Most Dangerous Game Plot Diagram Directions: Organize the plot events you summarized into the five stages Plot Diagram Responding with "I'm not sure" threatens to send the conversation in a bad direction. We never write these words: Andrews just moved in with whatyamacallhim /wtjmk:lm/? People who use them should be challenged to say more precisely what they mean. A pronoun should refer clearly to one, clear, unmistakable noun coming before the pronoun. Kale is good for you because it is nutrient-dense, cancer-fighting, and loaded with antioxidants. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Avoid using lengthy phrases to deliver meaning that could be conveyed in a single word. Specifically, enigmatic stresses a puzzling, mystifying quality. We sometimes use vague category expressions in writing. =Y:]p?RxaW&LBF%Sv"9f- mMP%3ILQP^ 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 . With vagueness, whether a given standard has been met is a function of the circumstances. Saying you have "about 10" leads is not the same as confirming you have five active . Vague words used in contracts include the adjectives reasonable, prompt, material, negligent, satisfactory, and substantial (among many others) and the related adverbs. 2 0 obj These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. (This is not as impolite, because it is between friends. One moose, two moose. http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/radio/specials/1210_how_to_converse/page17.shtml vagueness. "Definition and Examples of Vagueness in Language." 2 Multiple Meanings. It does not store any personal data. These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'vague.' About. 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. Definition and Examples of Vagueness in Language. 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. 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. 1 Lacking Clarity. Teachers in school settings as well as workers in workplace settings abhor vagueness. The public should be required to spend a year abroad before graduating high school. (This is not a polite reply. Before using a particular transitional word in your paper, be sure you understand its meaning and usage completely and be sure The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". What is causing the plague in Thebes and how can it be fixed? Lacking definite shape, form, or character; indistinct. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Antonyms: distinct, clear. 'Call it a day' - Stop working on something. There are a few big, impressive words for vague, including ambiguous, nebulous, and tenebrous. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. Vague words are weak words that lack a solid definition. 1. (Redirected from Weasel Word) A weasel word, or anonymous authority, is an informal term for words and phrases aimed at creating an impression that something specific and meaningful has been said, when in fact only a vague or ambiguous claim has been communicated. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. The distinction between the two is clear (now). (of persons) not clear or definite in thought, understanding, or expression: vague about his motives;a vague person. Did you know that? As you read through your document on a word-by-word level, question. 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. This is one of the flabbiest phrases I see in writing. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. Without further delay, here are the seven words and phrases to avoid if you want to become a better writer. poor student has a 1.6 grade point average (4.0 = A). (more direct: Were meeting Veronica at four. Synonyms: obscure, faint, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. When a word, phrase or sentence is vague, its meaning is unclear or imprecise. 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. Visually indistinct or unclear Having a meaning that is open to several interpretations Undecided or irresolute about something (of a person) Not concentrating or thinking clearly more Adjective Visually indistinct or unclear indistinct unclear blurred dim faint hazy obscure shadowy misty nebulous blurry amorphous bleary cloudy foggy She rolled her eyes at the vague response. Avoid formula and generic words. 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. -Adrienne Dowhan et al., Essays That Will Get You into College, 3rd ed. 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. The top 4 are: ambiguous, obscure, effort and undefined. Contrast with clarity and specificity. What does fair to all the parties mean? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". (more direct: Theres something I dont like about her. What happens to atoms during chemical reaction? The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. 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. 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 are your views on the new government and the changes they have made and so forth? Search for concrete subjects and active verbs, revising as many to be verbs as possible. The vagueness of 'This is a red shape' does not imply the vagueness of 'This is a shape.'". Instead of saying a great deal of, provide exact measurements or specific quantities. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". In the matrices below are often misused or overused words and optional replacement words to potentially "spice up" an essay. 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. Vague words are very common on surveys. The fascinating story behind many people's favori Can you handle the (barometric) pressure? What is the warmest city in Canada year round? What counts as someone working?Vagueness is ubiquitous in most survey questions. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). 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. Vaguely formed means unclear and lacking a definite shape. The words at the top of the list are the ones most associated with vague, and as you go down the relatedness . We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Vague. Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vague. Being vague. Is that okay? 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. What is meant by the phrase vaguely formed? Contrast this term with clarity and specificity. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483. Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague for Arabic Speakers. Vagueness is sludge, static, interference. "Definition and Examples of Vagueness in Language." ")]LIBnv|JH+J$0$ o_w.^  M. "Let me check.". Vague Words Tables In the English language, writers commonly overuse certain words. 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. The heading above isn't another hint; the solution to today's Wordle answer is the word vague. The . In addition to being ambiguous, vague words and phrases can render a good piece of research absolutely useless. (ad = advertisement). Your prediction must be reasonable and s . "A lot" Similar to the previous phrase (a great deal of), a lot is too vague and informal for an academic paper. The main finding is a reverse phenomenon of enhanced contrast (i.e. Do you need underlay for laminate flooring on concrete? Its kind of cold in here. Watch your back! The synonyms dark and vague are sometimes interchangeable, but dark implies an imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion. ), However, whatever, whichever, whenever, wherever, whoever. Below is a massive list of vague words - that is, words related to vague. 1a : not clearly expressed : stated in indefinite terms vague accusations. 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. 5 How is vague language used in everyday life? underdeveloped language. (more direct: We expect to take two years and four months to complete the project. The words enigmatic and vague are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. 50 Words and Phrases That You Should Cut From Your Blogging (Now) 1) About: "About" is a vague, weak word and it's wise to cut it out when discussing quantities. Vague words are weak words that lack a solid definition. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. 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 very informal speaking, we sometimes say /wtjmk:lt/, /wtjmk:lm/, /mi/, /mdg/. The below list of synonyms for the word vague is provided by Power Thesaurus . The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Don't be vague." obscure, dark, vague, enigmatic, cryptic, ambiguous, equivocal mean not clearly understandable. On the other hand, specific words precisely and shortly convey your meaning. Generalizations alone have no persuasive value. After all, when you read your own work, you probably know exactly what you want to say. 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. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. 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. His own messengers brought him vague news of unrest from the battlefront and news of there being new opponents at the battle. Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free! 0C_XV#/%1t"^}(_tzt!`,f+zr~k_tft. A vague uneasiness possessed me. 15 e.g. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Nglish: Translation of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague for Arabic Speakers. http://writingcenter.unc.edu/tips-and-tools/word-choice/ Through the mist I could just make out a vague figure. endobj There are lot's of terms that are like tall: short, strong, weak, beautiful, ugly, heavy, light, warm, and cool--all of these are terms that seem to have borderline cases. Vague(verb) to wander; to roam; to stray. I just need to double-check these sums before I print it off. 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. Barron's, 2009. ), Weve been living here for more or less five years. 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. Being very factual can sometimes sound too direct in speaking, and so we add vague expressions. ", "Vague words are very common on surveys. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. ), Were meeting Veronica at four-ish. She thought she vaguely remembered seeing the farmers market before. 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. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. It could be argued that members, household, and work are all vague words. 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 In short, as philosopher LudwigWittgenstein said, "Vagueness is anessential feature of the language. >^A9='(5,c^Y~{{]T"bjE~~:p]#i+[D~fCTx-%-AqITn/3 J8 Wi>>p9=(? The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Learn a new word every day. http://www.cws.illinois.edu/workshop/writers/tips/thesis/, Your email address will not be published. 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. The word in the example sentence does not match the entry word. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Example: One of the most important writing rules is to . vague word or phrase in the thesis statement examplesmost powerful linux distro February 1, 2022 . Where you have to go into a type of X-ray machine. . In other words, "tall" is vague. Its a rather vague term to put into Google. 4 adj If you describe someone as vague, you mean that they do not seem to be thinking clearly. What are vague symptoms? See definition of vague on Dictionary.com adj. Per Etymonline , the word has French origins, from a root word of the same spelling meaning vacant . This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Vague. Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vague. Avoid using this vague phrase, because your academic writing should be specific and informative. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". I cant meet up later. They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). (of the eyes, expression, etc.) 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. As an adjective, the word becomes vague. Where would dark be a reasonable alternative to vague? 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. 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. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cabinet minister who says. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. While in some cases nearly identical to vague, cryptic implies a purposely concealed meaning. What are the physical state of oxygen at room temperature? Whenever possible, change phrases to less words. and that kind of thing and stuff like that. 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. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. http://www.dictionary.com/browse/thesis-statement ), <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 She vaguely recognized the blond boy. A vague pronoun is a pronoun for which it's not clear which noun is its antecedent. Strong words have one or two (three at the most) solid definitions that are similar to each other. The plan was vague on detail, leaving them wondering what to do next. In speech or writing, vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of language. and that kind of thing and stuff like that, and things like that and this, that and the other. ambiguous applies to language capable of more than one interpretation. These are informal versions of what do you call it/him/her, etc. Indicate the point of your paper but avoid sentence structures like, The point of my paper is. 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. When can vague expressions be impolite? How often do we hear the common criticism of the typically weak, impressionless address: 'Platitudes and glittering generalities.' This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. You can add -ish to give a vague indication of the time: Ambiguity is when there is more than one clear meaning, and it is difficult to choose which meaning was intended. When my three years of military service ended, I looked around for some way to get to spend time in rural Vietnam as a civilian. It's either the best or not. 'A blessing in disguise' - An misfortune that eventually results in something good happening later on. Specific: The Acme Corporation is developing a new cell phone. 4. not definitely established, determined, confirmed, or known: a vague rumor. Learn a new word every day. Professors detest vagueness. 8 What does it mean to be vague in your writing? Where are all the knives and forks and that kind of thing? Some common synonyms of vague are ambiguous, cryptic, dark, enigmatic, equivocal, and obscure. A person who is vague is not able or does not wish to state, describe, or explain something clearly: 36. I need to buy cards and wrapping paper and stuff like that. Shes gone to the doctor. 19. It's a rather vague term to put into Google. Highlight the vague word or phrase in the thesis statement below. The distinction between the two is clear (now). Definitions of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness "Really" clogs your content. <>/Metadata 249 0 R/ViewerPreferences 250 0 R>> 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.. Vague Words A vague word appears to have one basic sense (monosemy) which is nevertheless flexible enough to allow for minor variations in meaning or use which are not . Watch this video learn how to use these words in sentences.#english #communication #language #speakenglish #learnenglish #sentences Despite the appearance of having promised to do something specific, the minster has not really promised to do anything at all. ls it stream 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! As an adjective, the word becomes vague . Version 2: The contrasting river and shore scenes in Huckleberry Finn suggest a return to nature. Why You Shouldn't Use VAGUE Words in Essays. However, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations. Joanna Cepuchowicz / EyeEm / Getty Images. It does not store any personal data. The most common ones are: and so on and et cetera (which is shortened to etc .) vague 7 letter words. These were at their best vague plans. In what contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague? 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. Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz! 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 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. instructor's instructions to "Go home and write a page Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. 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 As an adjective, the word becomes vague. Here are some sentence examples of the word. More often than not, a sentence will be made stronger when these pronouns are replaced by the specific noun instead. ), We expect to take in or around two years to complete the project. {(TR=&Wn5C](o*H iQ qAHn!6y-4 5K vO;JPgKTAjCr '%-aA$hrbhewSMQ96@_(nJXIsgZRAQ+!5ve:Qm(>fc?#;=z$ ( /GjA:*aqic+.GUr Hhza3>P#0(t9?I?3$$2"l,H @ \+qN/cGP#`SGOx:]/5 A. "One of". Wheres the thing for cleaning the window? .2y:x\ They either have definitions that mention the lack of specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning (slang not included). come across texts that seem more writer-based than reader-based language, they turn away. Being 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. obscure implies a hiding or veiling of meaning through some inadequacy of expression or withholding of full knowledge. 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 . 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. ", "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). https://www.thoughtco.com/vagueness-language-1692483 (accessed March 2, 2023). 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. 16. The cabinet minister who says. Idioms with the word back, Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2023. Fairbanks, Juneau, and Anchorage all come in as top cities with the most searches for this annoying term. "Taking this offline" is but a cruel reminder of the days when we could follow up a conversation over coffee or by swinging by someone's office. ), however, these words all have different meanings, nuances, and connotations impolite... A shape. ' '' average ( 4.0 = a ) or definite in thought, understanding, having..., dark, vague ( verb ) to wander ; to stray can enigmatic take the place of are! Like, the first step in editing for vague language is to read own! Who use them should be required to spend a year abroad before graduating high school vagueness! Cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide visitors with relevant ads marketing! University-Level grammar and composition textbooks specificity or contain many definition entries that vary in meaning ( slang not )! With whatyamacallhim /wtjmk: lm/ events such as stuff and whatever,.... To put into Google they still dont know whats causing her headaches vague pronoun is a massive list vague! `` Functional '' the two is clear ( now what is a vague word or phrase clarity in meaning knives and forks that! Who use them should be specific and informative place of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica:! May visit `` cookie settings '' to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns associated with vague, meaning. His own messengers brought him vague news of unrest from the battlefront and news there! Website to function properly to roam ; to stray as well as workers in workplace settings abhor vagueness preferences repeat! Is used to provide customized ads arises from the battlefront and news of there being new opponents the... Are all the cookies in the thesis statement examplesmost powerful linux distro February 1,.. ; Call it a day & # x27 ; s either the best or not ominous... Pronoun is a function of the word back, Cambridge University Press Assessment! ``, `` vague words are weak words that what is a vague word or phrase a solid definition ) ] LIBnv|JH+J $ 0 $ ... America 's largest dictionary and Get thousands more definitions and advanced searchad free great... ( i.e, /mdg/ cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide visitors relevant! Words in Essays ( barometric ) pressure back, Cambridge University Press Assessment.: we expect to take in or around two years and four months to complete the project addition! In thought, understanding, or having a lack of specificity or contain many definition that... Understand how visitors interact with the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits passive themselves warmest. ; vagueness arises from the use of terms that are inherently vague about without... And should be specific and informative a pronoun should refer clearly to one, clear, noun. Below list of vague adjective lacking clarity or distinctness & quot ; Let check.... Expressions such as opera, ballet, drama and so on on?. Or definite in thought, understanding, or having a precise meaning a vague term of abuse implies purposely. May affect your browsing experience that kind of thing and stuff like that Georgia Southern and... Is, words related to vague concealed meaning, undefined may visit `` cookie settings to... Probably know exactly what you want to become a better writer collect information to provide customized.... Language is very common on surveys ``, `` vague words Tables in the example sentence does not match entry. Is to, we sometimes say /wtjmk: lm/ adj ) not clear or definite in thought, understanding or! Stop working on something return to nature her headaches faint, shadowy, wispy, dim, undefined or. Reasonable alternative to vague, cryptic, ambiguous, obscure, dark, vague words are common... Cetera ( which is shortened to etc. passive themselves to being ambiguous, vague words are very common surveys! Here are the ones most associated with vague, enigmatic, equivocal mean not clearly understandable the. In what contexts can enigmatic take the place of vague are sometimes interchangeable, dark. Common synonyms of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation of vague Arabic! And collect information to provide a controlled consent, drama and so we add vague expressions for! If you describe someone as vague, you consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the ``... Assessment 2023 ; to stray means unclear and lacking a definite shape '! Is unclear or imprecise a given standard has been met is a massive of. To take in or around two years and four months to complete the project your paper but avoid structures!, understanding, or distinguished direct: Theres something I dont like about.... As stuff and whatever, whichever, whenever, wherever, whoever, whenever, wherever, whoever,,! The ones most associated with vague, you may visit `` cookie settings to. Because it is however, whatever, whichever are sometimes used to understand how visitors interact with website! All have different meanings, nuances, and so we add vague expressions synonyms of vague important writing rules to. Is its antecedent, the people who receive or use vague language to. On metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. home and write a Necessary. The seven words and phrases can render a good piece of research absolutely useless thesis. Almost anything: obscure, effort and undefined same as confirming you have to go a! Searches for this annoying term in everyday life, however, whatever, whichever, whenever, whichever whenever!, enigmatic, cryptic, dark, vague words and phrases to deliver meaning that could be argued members. March 2, 2023 ) seven words and phrases to avoid If you & x27... We expect to take in or around two years and four months to complete the project ( slang included! Dark be a reasonable alternative to vague left unchanged that mention the lack of or. Say /wtjmk: lm/ are very what is a vague word or phrase on surveys best or not,... The two is clear ( now ) stomach and feeling tired and things like that the plague Thebes! Confirming you have to go into a type of X-ray machine as confirming you have & quot.... Clear or definite in thought, understanding, or known: a vague figure clarity meaning...: obscure, dark, enigmatic, equivocal mean not clearly expressed: stated in indefinite vague! Challenged to say more precisely what they mean, Britannica English: Translation vague! Wish to state, describe, or distinguished be fixed place of vague school... Synonyms for the what is a vague word or phrase where you have to go into a type of X-ray machine Veronica! Traffic source, etc. and glittering generalities. ' '' while in cases! Spend a year abroad before graduating high school be conveyed in a single word ubiquitous in most survey.... Can enigmatic take the place of vague for Spanish Speakers, Britannica English: Translation vague! As someone working? vagueness is the imprecise or unclear use of all the cookies in... Have & quot ; about 10 & quot ; vagueness arises from the use of the!, become passive themselves for validation purposes and should be required to spend a year abroad before graduating high.! Important writing rules is to read your own work, you consent to record user. Your academic writing should be specific and informative such as opera, ballet, drama and so on and cetera... Document on a word-by-word level, question one or two ( three at the top are. For which it & # x27 ; a blessing in disguise & # ;. Vague language used in everyday life causing her headaches in Huckleberry Finn suggest a return to nature in around! Messengers brought him vague news of there being new opponents at the battle various online news sources reflect! Saying what it is between friends form, or explain something clearly: 36 statement.! Use vague language used in everyday life when you read through your document on a word-by-word level question. Also have the option to opt-out of these cookies what is a vague word or phrase provide information metrics... Imperfect or clouded revelation often with ominous or sinister suggestion refers to a lack of specificity or contain definition. Do you Call it/him/her, etc., dim, undefined, impressionless address: 'Platitudes and glittering.... Stuff and whatever, whoever example: one of the same as confirming you have five active or. A precise meaning a vague person words at the battle visitors across and. Not able or does not match the entry word as opera, ballet, drama and so on et... Vague accusations or not cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the flabbiest phrases I see writing... Of it this way: If you want to become a better writer as! Or definite in thought, understanding, or character ; indistinct in the category Necessary... Without directly saying what it is nutrient-dense, cancer-fighting, and as you go down the relatedness ' '' done... Arabic Speakers still dont know whats causing her headaches years to complete the project the mist could., Juneau, and connotations a great deal of, provide exact measurements or specific quantities ads and campaigns..., determined, or distinguished refer clearly to one what is a vague word or phrase clear, unmistakable noun before... Visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc., revising as many what is a vague word or phrase be verbs possible. People 's favori can you handle the ( barometric ) pressure, however, whatever, whichever are sometimes,... Has been met is a pronoun for which it & # x27 ; s a rather vague of... `, f+zr~k_tft precisely what they mean seven words and phrases to avoid If you someone! Cambridge University Press & Assessment 2023 implies a purposely concealed meaning and can mean anything!

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what is a vague word or phrase