a vague ideal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vague ideal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an abstract concept or goal that lacks clarity or specificity. Example: "The committee struggled to define their mission, often getting lost in discussions about a vague ideal of community engagement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

He never talks politics, and, at this point, his life long ago ruined by his service to the country, he is a warrior for a vague ideal that he describes like this: "You can't bring back the ones you love.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Consider the following when auditioning: Don't look for the perfect actor who fits with the vague ideal in your head, as this will cause a lot of anxiety and could put you off the project.

WikiHow

He has no interest in Rome, ancient or modern: nor does he any longer believe in his vague ideal, "the Absolute".

The Guardian - Books

"In today's economy, diversity isn't some vague ideal.

Huffington Post

Actually, there is a vague idea.

The New York Times

Angad, known for his loyalty to the first Guru, was able to give form and a definitive character to the somewhat vague ideals propounded by Nanak.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Yes? A: Vaguely.

The New Yorker

Human rights were not a vague or general ideal as far as she was concerned.

The Economist

Or is each of us to blame for using the word so loosely, making peace such a vague and intangible ideal?

Huffington Post

In "Summer Love" the western is little more than a collection of disintegrated parts, frayed bits and shabby pieces of some formerly coherent idea, a vague suggestion of an ideal (democratic, cinematic) that has become as blurred as a copy of a copy of a copy.

The New York Times

Sometimes we create because we have some large idea to express or some lofty ideal to promulgate, but just as often we create out of a vague desire just to make something new.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a vague ideal", ensure that the surrounding context provides enough information for the reader to understand the general direction or intention, even if the specifics are lacking.

Common error

Avoid using "a vague ideal" without providing any context, as this can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Always offer some clarification or examples to guide the reader's understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vague ideal" functions as a noun phrase, with "vague" modifying the noun "ideal". Ludwig examples, along with the AI summary, indicate that this phrase is used to describe abstract concepts or goals that lack specificity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vague ideal" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a concept or goal lacking specific details. While Ludwig AI confirms its usability, it's relatively rare. The phrase appears most frequently in news and media contexts. When using "a vague ideal", it's crucial to provide sufficient context to avoid confusion, as highlighted in the writing guidance. Related phrases like "an ill-defined concept" or "a nebulous notion" can offer alternative ways to express the same idea. Remember that while ideals are important, they should be balanced with concrete planning for effective outcomes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an undefined aspiration

Emphasizes the lack of clear definition in the goal.

an ill-defined concept

Highlights the poorly defined nature of the idea.

a nebulous notion

Stresses the hazy and indistinct quality of the idea.

an imprecise aim

Focuses on the lack of precision in the intended target.

a blurry vision

Uses a visual metaphor to convey the lack of clarity.

an ambiguous goal

Highlights the potential for multiple interpretations.

an abstract principle

Emphasizes the theoretical and non-concrete nature.

a general ambition

Stresses the broad and non-specific nature of the ambition.

a loose objective

Conveys a sense of flexibility and lack of strict definition.

a hazy concept

Indicates uncertainty and lack of distinctness in the concept.

FAQs

How can I use "a vague ideal" in a sentence?

You can use "a vague ideal" to describe a goal or concept that lacks specific details or clear definition. For example: "The project suffered because it was based on "a vague ideal" of community improvement."

What can I say instead of "a vague ideal"?

You can use alternatives like "an ill-defined concept", "a nebulous notion", or "an ambiguous goal" depending on the specific context.

Is it acceptable to base decisions on "a vague ideal"?

While ideals can be motivating, basing decisions solely on "a vague ideal" without concrete planning can lead to ineffective outcomes. It's important to balance idealism with practicality.

What's the difference between "a vague ideal" and "a concrete goal"?

"A vague ideal" lacks specific details and measurable outcomes, while "a concrete goal" is well-defined, specific, and achievable with clear steps. One represents an aspiration, the other a plan of action.