unclear definition

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unclear definition" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a term or concept that lacks a precise or specific meaning. Example: "The term 'freedom' often has an unclear definition, leading to various interpretations in different contexts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

The report identified a lack of consistency in the complaints procedure, "obscure" decision-making, and an unclear definition of misconduct.

The Guardian

In so doing, the work and pensions secretary dispensed with the current relative definition of poverty (anyone in a household beneath 60% of median income), abandoned all targets and introduced a new (although still rather unclear) definition, embracing work and education levels in the family.

The Guardian

Ambiguity Unclear definition of certain information in the artifact, which may lead to multiple interpretations.

Journal of Software Engineering Research and Development

Similarly, studies using a different form of external fixation and studies with an unclear definition of unstable fractures were excluded as well [20].

Strategies in Trauma and Limb Reconstruction

However, for individuals with advanced knowledge of anthropology or biology, this question may present problems as it is dependent on an unclear definition of "human".

Evolution: Education and Outreach

As formal deficiencies related to the bibliographic search, the incompleteness of the used study pool and an unclear definition of inclusion criteria for bibliographic search and data used for each population (Abirateron acetat) as well as inconsistencies in the search within study registries (Fingolimod) were criticized.

Health Economics Review

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

As a result, multifunctional proteins suffer from a lack of characterization, unclear definitions and have only been studied individually, on a case by case basis.

Nature

Not only is it mired in unclear definitions, but it is unlikely to have any impact on the site operators themselves: the CDA exempts website operators from both civil and state criminal laws.

The Guardian - Opinion

The charity blamed unclear definitions of both terms.Like adult prisoners, child inmates have wretched back-stories: even by the age of 14, a fifth have tried self-harming and almost a tenth have attempted suicide.

The Economist

This is probably caused by unclear definitions and vague boundaries between settled and mobile communities (Sheikh and Velema 1999).

Pastoralism

Interoperability of the different PPP products is a challenging task due to the public availability of different quality of products, limited literature documenting the conventions adopted within the network solution of the providers and unclear definitions of the corrections.

The Journal of Global Positioning Systems

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "unclear definition", provide context or examples to illustrate what makes the definition unclear. This adds clarity to your writing and helps the reader understand the specific issue.

Common error

Avoid assuming your audience understands the implications of an "unclear definition". Explicitly state the potential consequences or problems arising from this lack of clarity to ensure your message is fully understood.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unclear definition" functions as a noun phrase where "unclear" is an adjective modifying the noun "definition". It typically describes a concept or term that lacks precision or is open to multiple interpretations. According to Ludwig, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

58%

News & Media

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unclear definition" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression to describe a term or concept that lacks precision and clarity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. It is commonly found in scientific and news-related contexts, signaling a need for greater specificity. When employing this phrase, it is beneficial to provide further context to elucidate the lack of clarity. Alternatives like ""vague definition"" or ""ambiguous definition"" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. The key is to ensure that your audience understands the implications of the "unclear definition" to avoid potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vague definition

Replaces "unclear" with "vague", indicating a lack of precision or detail.

ambiguous definition

Substitutes "unclear" with "ambiguous", suggesting the definition is open to multiple interpretations.

imprecise definition

Replaces "unclear" with "imprecise", highlighting a lack of accuracy or exactness.

ill-defined concept

Shifts from "definition" to "concept", indicating the idea itself lacks clarity.

poorly defined term

Replaces "unclear" with "poorly defined", focusing on the inadequate quality of the definition.

loosely defined

Indicates that the definition is not strict or precise.

fuzzy definition

Implies a lack of sharp boundaries or clear distinctions.

indistinct definition

Suggests a lack of clarity that makes the definition difficult to perceive or understand.

nebulous definition

Replaces "unclear" with "nebulous", suggesting the definition is hazy and undefined.

opaque definition

Implies that the definition is difficult to understand because it is obscure or not transparent.

FAQs

What does "unclear definition" mean?

An "unclear definition" means that a term, concept, or idea lacks a precise and easily understandable meaning. It can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

How can I identify an "unclear definition"?

You can identify an "unclear definition" if it's open to multiple interpretations, lacks specific details, or uses vague language. Asking for examples can often reveal an "ambiguous definition".

What are some alternatives to "unclear definition"?

Alternatives to "unclear definition" include "vague definition", "ambiguous definition", "imprecise definition", or "poorly defined term" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Why is it important to avoid "unclear definitions" in writing?

Avoiding "unclear definitions" ensures that your message is accurately conveyed and understood by your audience. Using precise language reduces the risk of misinterpretations and strengthens your arguments.