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vague

adjective

/veɪɡ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of vague

Lacking clarity and specific details, often leaving room for ambiguity and uncertainty.
"The proposal was rejected due to its vague and impractical nature."

Detailed meaning of vague

When we refer to information, descriptions, or statements as vague, we mean that they are not sufficiently detailed or explicit, making it difficult to understand or interpret their meaning. Vague descriptions may leave room for multiple interpretations or create confusion due to their lack of clarity. This term can apply to various contexts, from vague instructions that leave you unsure of what to do to vague memories that are fuzzy and lack detail. It often prompts a need for further clarification or specificity to bring about a clearer understanding of the subject in question. In essence, "vague" highlights the absence of clear, precise, or well-defined information, leaving room for uncertainty or misinterpretation.

Example sentences containing vague

1. The instructions were so vague that I had trouble following them.
2. His vague explanation left us puzzled about his true intentions.
3. The memory of that day is hazy and vague in my mind.
4. The contract's terms were deliberately kept vague to allow flexibility.
5. She gave me a vague description of the suspect's appearance.
6. The politician's promises were often vague and unfulfilled.

History and etymology of vague

The adjective 'vague' has its origins in Latin. It can be traced back to the Latin word 'vagus,' which means 'wandering' or 'vague.' In its original Latin form, it described something that was not well-defined or was wandering without a clear path or purpose. Over time, 'vague' transitioned into English, retaining its sense of something lacking clarity and specific details, often leaving room for ambiguity and uncertainty. The word's etymology highlights the idea of something meandering or not precisely defined, reinforcing its modern usage to describe imprecise or unclear concepts, statements, or descriptions.

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Further usage examples of vague

1. The outline of the mountain in the distance was vague in the fog.
2. My understanding of the topic is still quite vague.
3. The meeting's agenda remained vague until the last minute.
4. The dream was filled with vague symbols and emotions.
5. The painting's meaning was intentionally left vague to provoke thought.
6. The directions to the hidden treasure were purposefully vague.
7. Her future plans were still quite vague at this point.
8. The proposal lacked specifics, making it seem vague and uncertain.
9. The origins of the ancient artifact are shrouded in vague legends.
10. The timeline for the project is still quite vague.
11. The outline of the figure in the mist was vague and eerie.
12. His response to the question was disappointingly vague.
13. The details of the conspiracy theory are intentionally kept vague.
14. Their relationship had always been a bit vague, never clearly defined.
15. The directions were vague and difficult to follow.
16. His answers to the questions were vague and evasive.
17. The description of the suspect was vague and unclear.
18. She had a vague idea of what to expect from the meeting.
19. The instructions on the box were vague and incomplete.
20. The concept of time travel is still vague and speculative.
21. He gave a vague response to the request for more details.
22. The outline for the project was still vague and undefined.
23. The memory of the event was vague and hazy in her mind.
24. His recollection of the conversation was vague and unreliable.
25. The plan for the future was vague and lacked a clear direction.