vague about what

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vague about what" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a lack of clarity or specificity regarding a particular subject or issue. Example: "The report was vague about what actions were needed to improve the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Crimean officials were remarkably vague about what had happened.

Independent

"I was very vague about what I would do.

Independent

Tucker is vague about what he might do next.

The Guardian - Film

The administration and Congress have been deliberately vague about what the capital ratios will be.

The New York Times - Magazine

But they were vague about what kind of gesture would be sufficient.

The New York Times

He mentions changeable scenery but is vague about what was involved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was vague about what he intended to do with the drugs.

The New Yorker

Mr. Almunia was vague about what Google had offered to clear the way for the talks.

The New York Times - Tech

But Lynn Barthelemy had been vague about what the caller said.

The New York Times

But Clinton was always vague about what the land on the other side of that bridge was going to look like, and Obama is vague about what edifice is going to go on top of that foundation.

The New York Times

But they are vague about what exactly that role will be.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vague about what", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the general area of uncertainty, even if the specifics remain undefined. Avoid using it in situations where absolute precision is required.

Common error

Avoid using "vague about what" without any contextual clues. If the reader has no idea what the subject of vagueness is, the phrase becomes meaningless. Provide at least a general topic to anchor the uncertainty.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague about what" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. Ludwig AI indicates that it describes a lack of specificity or clarity regarding a particular subject. It indicates that something is not clearly defined or expressed.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Encyclopedias

11%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vague about what" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to express a lack of clarity or specificity concerning a particular topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in News & Media. While versatile, it's crucial to provide sufficient context to ensure the subject of vagueness is understood. When aiming for increased formality, alternatives like "unclear regarding the specifics" may be more appropriate. Avoiding overuse without context will maintain clarity in communication. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules, making it a reliable choice for expressing ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unclear regarding the specifics

Replaces "vague" with "unclear" and uses "regarding the specifics" for a more formal tone.

non-specific as to the problem

Uses "non-specific" instead of "vague" and replaces "what" with "the problem", pinpointing lack of specificity.

not explicit about the matter

Replaces "vague" with "not explicit" and "what" with "the matter", offering a more direct alternative.

ambiguous regarding the subject matter

Uses "ambiguous" instead of "vague", and expands "what" to "the subject matter" for increased precision.

imprecise about the information

Substitutes "vague" with "imprecise" emphasizing lack of exactness in relation to "the information".

indefinite concerning the details

Substitutes "vague" with "indefinite" and "what" with "the details", adding a layer of formality.

general in relation to the content

Replaces "vague" with "general", highlighting the lack of specific detail in "the content".

lacking clarity on the issue

Rephrases the entire expression to focus on the lack of clarity, rather than the vagueness itself.

evasive regarding the particulars

Uses "evasive" to imply intentional avoidance of details, rather than mere vagueness.

circumlocutory concerning the topic

Employs "circumlocutory" to denote indirectness and "topic" instead of "what", suggesting evasion.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "vague about what" in a more formal way?

For more formal alternatives to "vague about what", consider using phrases such as "unclear regarding the specifics" or "indefinite concerning the details".

What does it mean when someone is "vague about what" happened?

When someone is "vague about what" happened, it means they are not providing clear or specific details regarding an event or situation. They might be omitting information or speaking in generalities.

Is it better to be specific or "vague about what" you want?

In most situations, it is better to be specific about what you want to ensure clarity and avoid misunderstandings. Being "vague about what" you want can lead to confusion and unmet expectations.

When is it acceptable to be "vague about what" you are discussing?

It might be acceptable to be "vague about what" you are discussing when protecting sensitive information, avoiding unnecessary details, or when the specifics are not yet fully determined. However, always consider the potential for confusion or misinterpretation.