being vague enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being vague enough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the level of ambiguity or lack of specificity in a statement or situation. Example: "In negotiations, sometimes being vague enough can help maintain flexibility in the discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Am I being vague enough?

The New Yorker

So at some point, we have to come to the negotiating table and find a way to bring this to an end". Trump's plan may have the advantage of being vague enough to at least temporarily avoid alienating some supporters who were attracted by his militaristic vows on the campaign trail, and to win over hawkish Republicans in Congress.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

This language is vague enough to bear numerous interpretations.

The New Yorker

Yet the genius of her message is that it's vague enough to be nearly universal.

The Washington Post

They are vague enough to make you fill in the gaps: therein lies their force.

Independent

He was vague enough that his statement could be interpreted in a number of different ways.

The Washington Post

He believed the constitution was vague enough he could bend it".

The Guardian

A number of other promises are vague enough to leave the carriers room for fudging.

The New York Times - Travel

The wording of the accord reached last week in Pittsburgh is vague enough to allow interpretation.

The New York Times

Critics said the law's definitions of terrorist crimes are vague enough to encompass all manner of activity.

The New York Times

But Scott-Irvine doesn't think them sufficiently strong: "They are vague enough to be open to interpretation.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "being vague enough" when you need to imply a lack of specificity is intentional or serves a purpose, such as avoiding alienating certain groups or allowing for multiple interpretations.

Common error

Avoid relying on "being vague enough" as a crutch for lack of clarity. Ensure the level of vagueness is purposeful and doesn't obscure the main message or intention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being vague enough" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate the degree of vagueness. It describes the extent to which something lacks specificity or clarity. Ludwig AI validates this with real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "being vague enough" is a phrase used to describe the intentional lack of specificity, often for strategic reasons. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and usable in English. While it can be a valuable tool in certain situations, such as diplomacy or avoiding alienating specific groups, it's crucial to ensure the vagueness doesn't lead to confusion or a lack of accountability. The phrase appears most commonly in News & Media contexts, reflecting its relevance in discussions of political statements, legal language, and strategic communication. Related phrases include "sufficiently ambiguous" and "intentionally imprecise", offering alternative ways to express the concept.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sufficiently ambiguous

Emphasizes the presence of ambiguity to an adequate degree, similar to vagueness.

adequately unclear

Focuses on the lack of clarity being at an acceptable level.

ambiguous to a fault

Highlights that the ambiguity is excessive and potentially problematic.

intentionally imprecise

Indicates a deliberate choice to be not precise.

deliberately indefinite

Focuses on the deliberate nature of the lack of definition.

generously ambiguous

Highlights the abundance of ambiguity.

unspecific to a degree

Emphasizes the lack of specific details.

somewhat nebulous

Uses a more figurative term to describe the lack of clarity.

evasively worded

Focuses on the characteristic of the wording to avoid precision.

skirting the issue

Implies an avoidance of directness rather than just a lack of clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "being vague enough" in a sentence?

You can use "being vague enough" to describe a statement, plan, or law that is intentionally not specific, often to allow for flexibility or to avoid alienating people. For example, "The politician's statement was "vague enough" to appeal to both sides of the issue."

What's the difference between "being vague enough" and "being too vague"?

"Being vague enough" suggests a level of vagueness that serves a purpose, such as allowing for multiple interpretations or avoiding specifics. "Being too vague", on the other hand, implies the lack of clarity is excessive and detrimental to understanding.

What are some synonyms for "being vague enough"?

Some synonyms for "being vague enough" include "sufficiently ambiguous", "adequately unclear", or "intentionally imprecise".

Is "being vague enough" always a positive attribute?

Not necessarily. While "being vague enough" can be useful in certain situations, such as diplomacy or negotiation, it can also be perceived negatively if it leads to confusion, lack of accountability, or an inability to take decisive action. The effectiveness of "being vague enough" depends on the context and intent.