vague comment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vague comment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a statement that lacks clarity or specificity. Example: "Her feedback was just a vague comment that didn't help me understand what I needed to improve."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

I assumed she liked them, because whenever a box was passed around, she would make some vague comment along the lines of "I like them".

The New York Times - Tech

Timothy F. Geithner, the Treasury secretary, offered a vague comment to Congress last March, that after some unspecified reform effort someday in the future, the companies "will not exist in the same form as they did in the past".

The New York Times

One analyst from Bank of America Merrill Lynch said in an equity research note: "The [chief executive officer's] vague comment on rampant press speculation concerning his departure is … potentially leaving a complicated vessel rudderless in increasingly stormy waters".

The Guardian - Business

A spokesman for the governor offered only a tantalizingly vague comment: "The governor is focusing on running state government, and is considering a number of post-November 15 options".

The New York Times

The White House talking points conclude with this strikingly vague comment: "While there are multiple paths the House of Representatives can take, the President stands willing to work with all parties to make immigration reform a reality".

The Guardian

It's a small, vague comment, but I think the point is clear - if nothing else, this movie is going to be a bit darker than Wright's proposed version.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

These were vague comments, but no one mistook their meaning.

The New Yorker

The government has offered only vague comments about negotiations.

The New York Times

Romney's position on the law had taken a typically circuitous path littered with vague comments.

The New Yorker

These senators have not weighed in publicly, or they have weighed in with vague comments.

The Washington Post

The tenor was also raised when Mr. Nicola made vague comments about the delay's cause.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vague comment", ensure the context makes it clear what the comment is referring to and why its vagueness is relevant. Specificity in surrounding sentences will enhance clarity.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly describing statements as "vague comment" without explaining why they are vague. Instead, elaborate on what specific aspects lack clarity or precision.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague comment" functions as a noun phrase, where "vague" modifies the noun "comment". According to Ludwig AI, it describes a statement that lacks clarity or precision. Examples show its use in describing political statements, personal opinions, or business communications.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

77%

Science

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vague comment" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe statements lacking clarity or precision. As Ludwig AI confirms, it functions as a noun phrase and is primarily used in neutral contexts, particularly in news and media, though it can also be found in scientific and encyclopedic contexts. The frequency of "vague comment" is uncommon, yet the analysis reveals its consistent use across authoritative sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. When using "vague comment", ensure the context clarifies what the comment refers to and why its vagueness is noteworthy. Alternatives such as "ambiguous remark" or "unclear statement" offer nuanced ways to express similar ideas.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ambiguous remark

Emphasizes the open to interpretation nature of the comment.

unclear statement

Highlights the lack of clarity in the statement.

imprecise observation

Focuses on the inexactness of the comment.

indefinite assertion

Indicates the statement lacks specific definition.

nebulous declaration

Suggests the comment is hazy and ill-defined.

evasive response

Highlights the comment's avoidance of directness.

noncommittal answer

Focuses on the comment's lack of commitment or opinion.

general remark

Emphasizes the comment's lack of specific detail.

equivocal statement

Suggests the comment is deliberately ambiguous or misleading.

tenuous explanation

Highlights the weakness or lack of substance in the explanation.

FAQs

How can I replace "vague comment" in my writing?

Alternatives include "ambiguous remark", "unclear statement", or "imprecise observation", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What makes a comment "vague"?

A "vague comment" lacks specific details, making it difficult to understand the exact meaning or implications. It may be open to multiple interpretations or lack a clear focus.

Is it always negative to make a "vague comment"?

Not necessarily. Sometimes, a "vague comment" is used intentionally to avoid commitment, maintain neutrality, or explore an idea without definitive claims. However, it can also be perceived negatively if clarity is expected.

How does a "vague comment" differ from an outright lie?

A "vague comment" lacks clarity but isn't necessarily untrue. A lie, on the other hand, is a deliberate misrepresentation of facts. Vagueness aims for ambiguity, while lying aims for deception.