have a vague knowledge of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'have a vague knowledge of' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a superficial understanding of something. For example, "I have a vague knowledge of the inner workings of the stock market, but I wouldn't consider myself an expert."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Its members aren't Jews, they only have a vague knowledge of the Torah".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Don't forget that the average user probably only has a vague knowledge of what you provide -- particularly in more tech-oriented industries.

Huffington Post

This is not meant to be merely a litany of Welsh achievements in the US, rather a presentation of credentials to those who have, at best, a vague knowledge of a country propelled into the sporting spotlight because it is staging the Ryder Cup.

Independent

For those with even a vague knowledge of midcentury American art history, however, this narrative rings untrue.

The New York Times

When Amy is confronted with her apparent acquaintance with a gangster named Cheese, she affects merely a vague knowledge of his existence.

The Guardian - Film

Even those with only a vague knowledge of Primal Scream's past will be surprised to learn that Loaded is a dance record.

The Guardian - Music

How worried should I be about attending interviews in law firms when I have a very vague knowledge of the legal profession (being a science student)?Steve.

Science Magazine

By Andrea DenHoed December 20 , 2013A very informal office poll reveals that while the name Lisa Frank can provoke vivid competing flashbacks of psychedelic warm fuzzies and elementary-school social hierarchies among women between the ages of twenty and thirty-five, readers outside that demographic might have only vague knowledge of Frank's shiny rainbow- and animal-themed school-supply empire.

The New Yorker

A very informal office poll reveals that while the name Lisa Frank can provoke vivid competing flashbacks of psychedelic warm fuzzies and elementary-school social hierarchies among women between the ages of twenty and thirty-five, readers outside that demographic might have only vague knowledge of Frank's shiny rainbow- and animal-themed school-supply empire.

The New Yorker

And I have a vague recollection of the subway.

The New York Times

I have a vague idea of how this may or may not work.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "have a vague knowledge of" when you want to downplay your expertise on a topic without admitting complete ignorance.

Common error

Avoid using "have a vague knowledge of" when you actually possess substantial expertise. It can undermine your credibility if your actions or statements demonstrate a deeper understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "have a vague knowledge of" functions as a verb phrase, expressing a state of possessing limited or unclear information about a particular subject. As noted by Ludwig, it indicates a superficial understanding.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "have a vague knowledge of" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a superficial or limited understanding of a subject. According to Ludwig, the AI analysis confirms its validity for written English, indicating its suitability for diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Science. While it signals some familiarity, it also communicates a lack of in-depth expertise. Related phrases like "possess a superficial understanding of" or "have a limited grasp of" can offer more nuanced ways to express similar ideas. As noted in the best practices, using it appropriately ensures clear communication without overstating one's knowledge.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

possess a superficial understanding of

This alternative emphasizes the lack of depth in understanding.

have a limited grasp of

This phrase suggests a restricted comprehension of the subject.

have a hazy understanding of

This alternative uses "hazy" to convey a sense of unclear or incomplete knowledge.

have a rough idea about

This suggests having only a basic or general sense of something.

be slightly acquainted with

This implies a minimal level of familiarity.

have a fleeting awareness of

This indicates a brief or passing recognition.

have a sketchy notion of

This highlights the incompleteness and lack of detail in the knowledge.

have a general idea of

This suggests a non-specific understanding.

have some awareness of

This indicates a basic level of consciousness or recognition.

have a rudimentary knowledge of

This implies a basic or elementary level of knowledge.

FAQs

How can I use "have a vague knowledge of" in a sentence?

You can use "have a vague knowledge of" to express a superficial understanding of a topic. For example, "I "have a vague knowledge of" quantum physics, but I'm not an expert".

What are some alternatives to "have a vague knowledge of"?

Alternatives include "possess a superficial understanding of", "have a limited grasp of", or "have a hazy understanding of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "have a vague knowledge of" or "have a limited knowledge of"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "have a limited knowledge of" is more direct. "Have a vague knowledge of" implies the knowledge is not only limited but also unclear or ill-defined.

What's the difference between "have a vague knowledge of" and "have a basic understanding of"?

"Have a basic understanding of" suggests a foundation of knowledge, while "have a vague knowledge of" indicates a lack of clarity and detail. A "basic understanding" is more solid than a vague one.