fuzzy thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fuzzy thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe unclear, vague, or illogical reasoning or thought processes. Example: "The team's proposal was rejected due to the fuzzy thinking that failed to address the core issues of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

Fuzzy writing allows fuzzy thinking.

Harvard Business Review

Norman Finkelstein, a political scientist, combs Mr Goldhagen's text for inconsistencies and fuzzy thinking.

The Economist

Nothing like a rigorous copy editor and a looming morning deadline to clear up fuzzy thinking.

Cornell University

But no organization can afford fuzzy thinking about these fundamental concepts.

Harvard Business Review

And when it comes to concepts that are so fundamental to performance, no organization can afford fuzzy thinking.

Harvard Business Review

But the "it's all a dream" setup has long been used by dramatists, opera composers and creators of all kinds as a cover for a lot of self-indulgence and fuzzy thinking.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

But sooner or later they break down". Computers, symbols of pure logic, offer a good illustration of the difference between fuzzy and non-fuzzy thinking.

Los Angeles Times

I grew up within a mile of Ed Begley Jr. in Los Angeles, and I still get warm fuzzies thinking about how he and I once shared a Studio City zip code.

Huffington Post

A tradition of staggering incompetence is exactly what makes Brits go all warm and fuzzy when thinking about their precious BBC.

Vice

Patients with lower levels of VTE risk may be more affected by using the fuzzy manner of thinking, because among these patients, the application of fuzzy logic may alter the risk level and the options of thromboprophylaxis due to change in cumulative risk score.

BMC Medical Informatics and Decision Making

On "Childish Prodigy," which veers from mutant blues-rock to shimmering balladry, Mr. Vile plays a fuzzy-thinking urban poet, weaving together barbs and oblique vignettes in an imperfect baritone.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To avoid your own "fuzzy thinking", clearly define the terms and concepts you are using, and ensure your arguments are logically structured and supported by evidence.

Common error

Avoid using "fuzzy thinking" as a blanket criticism without providing specific details. Instead of saying "Your proposal shows fuzzy thinking", explain which aspects of the proposal lack clarity or logical support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fuzzy thinking" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "fuzzy" modifies the noun "thinking". It serves to describe a quality or characteristic of the thinking process. Ludwig examples confirm its use in various contexts to denote a lack of clarity or precision.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Academia

33%

Formal & Business

22%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fuzzy thinking" is used to describe reasoning that lacks clarity, precision, or logical rigor. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used across diverse fields, including academia, news media, and business. While the phrase is not exceedingly formal, it is regarded as neutral. To employ "fuzzy thinking" effectively, users should ensure they illustrate their concerns with specific examples. Alternatives to "fuzzy thinking" include "unclear reasoning", "muddled thought", or "vague notions", depending on the specific intent.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unclear reasoning

Focuses on the lack of clarity in the thought process.

muddled thought

Emphasizes the confused and disordered nature of the thought.

vague notions

Highlights the lack of defined ideas.

imprecise logic

Points to the inaccuracy in the logical sequence.

woolly reasoning

Indicates a lack of sharpness and definition in thinking.

foggy brain

Uses a metaphor to describe a state of mental confusion.

confused mindset

Describes a general state of mental disarray.

irrational thought

Highlights the lack of reason and logic.

unfocused thinking

Emphasizes the lack of concentration or direction.

scattered thoughts

Suggests a lack of coherence and organization in thinking.

FAQs

How can I use "fuzzy thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "fuzzy thinking" to describe unclear, vague, or illogical reasoning, as in, "The proposal was rejected due to the team's "fuzzy thinking" on the core issues".

What's the difference between "fuzzy thinking" and "critical thinking"?

"Fuzzy thinking" refers to unclear and illogical reasoning, while "critical thinking" involves clear, rational analysis and evaluation of information.

What can I say instead of "fuzzy thinking"?

Alternatives include "unclear reasoning", "muddled thought", or "vague notions", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "fuzzy thinking" a negative term?

Yes, "fuzzy thinking" generally carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of clarity, precision, or logical rigor in one's thought process.