vague definition

USAGE SUMMARY

"vague definition" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when an explanation given for something is not clear or concise enough. For example: The professor's vague definition of the word made it difficult for us to understand the concept.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Under the legislation, landowner consent for mining is given an ominously vague definition.

The Guardian - Opinion

The measure, they said, contains only a vague definition of what constitutes a terrorist group.

The New York Times

"By using a broad and vague definition of terrorism, that has a chilling effect on free speech".

The New York Times

When pressed, he only offers this vague definition: "If you can taste the dirt through your ears, that is Americana.

The Guardian - Music

It gives back primacy to local planning, which the earlier draft tried to replace in the short-term with an individual permit system, based on a vague definition of "sustainability".

The Guardian - Opinion

Attempts to write new definitions in 2003 and 2007 did not move forward, leaving in place this vague definition: "Public relations helps an organization and its publics adapt mutually to each other".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

Long timetables, incremental steps and vague definitions have an unhappy history in the Mideast, most recently demonstrated in the violent unraveling of the Oslo peace agreements.

The New York Times

At every turn, there is a sense of vague definitions spewing from the machinery of government policymaking - what is meant by "glorifying terrorism", "extremism", "radicalism"?

The Guardian

And when using countermeasures, companies can modify, block, or disrupt internet traffic so long as they believe the actions are allowed by the vague definitions of the bill.

The Guardian - Opinion

Since the Sixth Amendment makes no distinction between citizens and aliens, the claim of war exigency could sweep its protections aside for anyone in this country who might fit the vague definitions of aiding terrorism.

The New York Times

Peter J. Wallison, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a longtime critic of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac who issued a critical report of Fannie Mae with Mr. Calomiris in September, said Fannie Mae's vague definitions for risky mortgages had masked its potential losses.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When criticizing a "vague definition", provide specific examples of how the lack of clarity leads to misinterpretations or practical problems.

Common error

Avoid simply stating that a definition is "vague" without explaining why it is vague and what the consequences of this vagueness are. Always contextualize your critique.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague definition" functions as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject complement or object, characterizing a particular definition as lacking clarity. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to critique definitions needing precision.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

31%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Reference

8%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vague definition" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a definition that lacks clarity and precision. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, its prevalence is significant across varied contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific domains. While its grammatical function is primarily as a noun phrase, its communicative purpose is often critical, pointing out deficiencies in explanations. To use the phrase effectively, ensure to provide specific reasons for the perceived vagueness. Considering the "aiResponseStatus" and examples from Ludwig, it's crucial to contextualize any critique of a definition's vagueness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imprecise term

Replaces 'definition' with 'term' to denote a lack of precision.

ill-defined concept

Focuses on the concept being poorly defined rather than the definition itself.

ambiguous description

Substitutes 'vague' with 'ambiguous' and 'definition' with 'description'.

nebulous characterization

Emphasizes the lack of clarity in the characterization.

poorly defined

A shorter and more direct way to express that something lacks a clear definition.

lacks clarity

Indicates an absence of clear and precise elements.

undefined criteria

Emphasizes that the criteria lack a clear definition.

unclear parameters

Focuses on the parameters having a lack of clarity.

fuzzy boundaries

Implies the limits or borders are not clearly defined.

subjective interpretation

Highlights that the meaning is open to personal interpretation and thus not clearly defined.

FAQs

How can I use "vague definition" in a sentence?

You can use "vague definition" to describe a concept or term that lacks clarity or precision. For example, "The law's "vague definition" of 'public interest' makes it open to interpretation."

What are some alternatives to using "vague definition"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "imprecise term", "ill-defined concept", or "ambiguous description". These alternatives convey a similar meaning while varying the wording.

Why is it problematic to have a "vague definition"?

A "vague definition" can lead to misunderstandings, inconsistent applications, and disputes over interpretation. Clear and precise definitions are essential for effective communication and consistent application of rules or concepts.

In what contexts is the term "vague definition" commonly used?

The term "vague definition" is frequently used in legal, political, and academic discussions where clarity and precision are essential. It's also common in everyday conversations when pointing out ambiguity in explanations.