unclear concept

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unclear concept" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing ideas or notions that lack clarity or are difficult to understand. Example: "The theory presented in the lecture was an unclear concept that left many students confused."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Some of the work was uneven -- poor execution combined with unclear concept -- and Mr. Gaskins, on my panel, usually spotted the snag and gently set the student straight.

The New York Times

The node in the connection matrix is the key element, and it is still an unclear concept in the analysis of brain networks [26].

Brain Informatics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

The aim of the proponents of these concepts is to re-interpret the knowledge of contemporary genetics by replacing sloppy thinking based on unclear concepts with more rigorous thinking in terms of precise concepts.

SEP

RSD is a poorly defined condition in spite of 'new' but still unclear concepts such as complex regional pain syndrome type I (RSD) and type II (causalgia).

Arthritis Research and Therapy

Cognitive interviews allow researchers to: learn about respondents' comprehension of candidate survey items; identify any unclear concepts, questions, or terms; and evaluate whether or not the answer provided accurately reflects what respondents have to report.

AIDS and Behavior

Although the ratio of effective BF is unclear, this concept may help us to understand the mechanism of "CO2 washout" by the BF.

Intensive Care Medicine Experimental

The spread of cryogenic liquid due to a limited period of release is investigated for the first time to clarify the unclear conventional concept regarding two release types: continuous and instantaneous release.

Journal of Loss Prevention in the Process Industries

When faced with these facts, many people fall back to the Kennedy myth, that we went to the Moon because of the vision of a single man with the charisma and will to make it reality, ergo the same can be done with any problem we set our sights on but for those fun-killin' Luddites who insist on harshing squees (file this under "unclear on concepts" and "perpetual juvenility").

Huffington Post

While some students found the complexity of the case frustrating, it served as an encouragement to review unclear physiological concepts before starting on the wards; they were also reminded that they would have many more opportunities to refine their clinical reasoning skills and employ physiological concepts to guide management.

BMC Medical Education

These instruments are missing several important dimensions of the body awareness construct without which it remains unclear how the concept of body awareness may aid in the patient evaluation and treatment of major medical illnesses.

Plosone

Last year's Theos study, for example, showed something like 40% of the UK's adult population unclear on the concept.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "unclear concept", ensure that you provide context or examples to illustrate what makes the concept unclear. This helps the reader understand the specific aspects that lack clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "unclear concept" as a standalone criticism. Instead, specify which parts of the concept are unclear and why. For example, instead of simply stating "the concept is unclear", explain "the concept is unclear due to the lack of empirical evidence".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unclear concept" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying the noun "concept". It indicates that the concept being referred to is not easily understood or lacks clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical structure.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

35%

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "unclear concept" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe ideas or notions that lack clarity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and functional expression. While frequently found in scientific and news contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various forms of communication. To enhance clarity, it's crucial to specify why a concept is deemed unclear. Consider using alternatives like "vague notion" or "ambiguous idea" for nuanced expression. Remember, clear communication hinges on identifying and elucidating the specific aspects contributing to the "unclear concept".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vague notion

Replaces "concept" with "notion" and "unclear" with "vague", focusing on the imprecise nature of the idea.

ambiguous idea

Substitutes "concept" with "idea" and "unclear" with "ambiguous", highlighting the potential for multiple interpretations.

ill-defined concept

Replaces "unclear" with "ill-defined", emphasizing the lack of clear boundaries or parameters.

poorly understood idea

Changes the structure to focus on the lack of understanding rather than the inherent clarity of the concept.

nebulous concept

Replaces "unclear" with "nebulous", suggesting the concept is hazy and ill-formed.

imprecise notion

Similar to vague notion, but emphasizes lack of precision.

murky concept

Emphasizes the obscurity of the idea using figurative language.

fuzzy concept

Suggests a lack of sharp definition or clarity, making the concept indistinct.

opaque idea

Implies the concept is difficult to see through or understand.

incomprehensible concept

Highlights the inability to understand the idea, indicating a complete lack of clarity.

FAQs

How can I use "unclear concept" in a sentence?

You can use "unclear concept" to describe an idea or theory that is not easily understood. For example: "The professor attempted to explain the theory, but it remained an "unclear concept" for many students".

What are some alternatives to "unclear concept"?

Some alternatives include "vague notion", "ambiguous idea", or "ill-defined concept". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "unclear concept" or "unclear idea"?

Both "unclear concept" and "unclear idea" are acceptable. "Concept" often implies a more formal or theoretical idea, while "idea" can be more general. Choose the word that best fits the context.

What makes a "concept" unclear"?

A "concept" can be "unclear" due to several factors, such as lack of definition, conflicting information, or abstract nature. Providing specific reasons for the lack of clarity can improve communication.