a vague reply

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vague reply" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a response that lacks clarity or specificity. Example: "When I asked for details about the project, I received a vague reply that left me more confused than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Sorry to bother you," she said, "but do you know where he is now?" I managed a vague reply.

The New Yorker

It took a series of phone calls and questions to eke it out of them, starting with a vague reply from a staffer who then tried to backtrack with a message that, retroactively, her remark was "completely off the record".

Forbes

I got a vague reply.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

When asked yesterday if he expected Ewing to be a Knick at the start of training camp in October, Layden, the Knicks' general manager, replied with a vague response about his fondness for the club's current roster.

The New York Times - Sports

In ordinary circumstances the press would deem this a preposterously vague reply, but the miracles of the 90s had left a shamanistic mystique around the Wallabies coaching job.

The Guardian - Sport

Asked by Deadspin about the novel's progress, Martin gave a characteristically vague reply: "Of course I have pages.

Los Angeles Times

Diners who dared to ask the price of specials got a disgusted and vague reply.

The New York Times

"Er, I'm involved in a drama production," came the lofty, if vague, reply.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Asked about North Korea in a press conference at the close of this week's nuclear summit in Washington, Obama gave the vague reply that he hoped economic pressure would lead to a resumption of the six-party talks.

Forbes

I believe Farage's vague reply exemplified this.

The Guardian - Opinion

At each turn, she had been gently pressuring him to run the New York City Marathon; Gebrselassie would always respond with the same smile and vague reply: in time.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a vague reply", consider what the vagueness implies about the speaker or the situation. Does it suggest evasion, uncertainty, or a lack of understanding?

Common error

Avoid using "a vague reply" as a generic descriptor. Instead, provide context about what made the reply vague, helping the reader understand its significance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vague reply" functions as a noun phrase, where "vague" is an adjective modifying the noun "reply". It describes the characteristic of the reply being unclear or lacking in detail. As Ludwig AI explains, it describes a response lacking clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vague reply" is a noun phrase used to describe a response lacking clarity or detail. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common use in describing responses that lack clarity. While not exceedingly frequent, its usage is consistent across various contexts, predominantly in News & Media. When using this phrase, consider the implications of the vagueness: is it intentional, evasive, or simply a result of uncertainty? Understanding the context is key to effectively conveying the intended meaning. Consider alternatives such as "an unclear answer" or "an ambiguous response" to refine the intended nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unclear answer

Focuses on the lack of clarity in the response, rather than its lack of detail.

an ambiguous response

Highlights the multiple possible interpretations of the reply.

an evasive answer

Suggests the reply was deliberately avoiding the question.

a non-committal answer

Emphasizes the lack of commitment or decisiveness in the reply.

a general response

Indicates the reply lacked specificity and applied broadly.

an indefinite response

Stresses the lack of defined boundaries or limits in the reply.

a cryptic answer

Highlights the mysterious and difficult-to-understand nature of the reply.

a roundabout answer

Emphasizes that the reply didn't address the question directly.

a circumspect answer

Implies the reply was cautious and carefully considered.

a guarded response

Highlights the caution and protectiveness behind the reply.

FAQs

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

You can use "a vague reply" to describe a response that lacks detail or clarity. For example, "When asked about the company's future plans, the CEO gave "a vague reply" that offered little insight".

What are some alternatives to "a vague reply"?

Alternatives to "a vague reply" include "an unclear answer", "an ambiguous response", or "an evasive answer", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when someone gives "a vague reply"?

A "vague reply" often indicates that the person responding is either unsure of the answer, unwilling to provide complete information, or trying to avoid the question altogether. It suggests a lack of clarity or detail in the response.

Is it better to give "a vague reply" or admit you don't know?

Whether it's better to give "a vague reply" or admit you don't know depends on the situation. In some cases, "a vague reply" might be preferable to avoid spreading misinformation. However, honesty is generally the best policy and admitting ignorance can build trust.