vague expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

"vague expressions" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to phrases or words with unclear or imprecise meaning. For example, "I don't like how politicians use vague expressions to avoid answering a question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

Saying only generally positive things, vague expressions of hope.

The New Yorker

Duvalier has not explained his motive for returning, beyond vague expressions of wanting to help rebuild the quake-shattered nation.

The Guardian

The Republican-controlled House of Representatives, though, has proved tougher to crack, despite vague expressions of support from party leaders.

The Economist

Throughout the debate, Mr. Romney has been careful to weigh in with only vague expressions of support for Republicans in Congress.

The New York Times

They were inflamed by Japan's claim that the Taiwanese skipper was to blame for the collision, and by only vague expressions of regret.

The Economist

Too often she relies on vague expressions to register complex emotional shifts: "Out of nowhere something changed," "After those magazines it was never the same" or "Something was changing".

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

For all their complexity (and their relation to deep questions of the rights of the citizen and the responsibilities that a community can justifiably impose on the citizen), those considerations do not determine a standard that is more precise than a standard that could be expressed using such an ordinary vague expression as 'bald'bald

SEP

But – and this is a very, very big but – one vague expression does not postmodernism make.

The Guardian - Opinion

Trump made a vague expression of contrition, but with the air of a man looking over the moderators' shoulders for a sign pointing to said locker room.

The New Yorker

But De Niro is a marvel; he doesn't just pull off the posture and the gait - he also nails the slightly vague expression of someone whose eyesight isn't quite as sharp as it used to be.

The Guardian - Film

Feminism is, of course, part of human rights in general – but to choose to use the vague expression human rights is to deny the specific and particular problem of gender.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for clarity, replace "vague expressions" with more specific and concrete language to avoid ambiguity and ensure your message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "vague expressions" when precision is needed. Overusing abstract language can weaken your message and confuse your audience. Always strive for clarity and specificity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague expressions" typically functions as a noun phrase, where "vague" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "expressions". It describes the quality of the expressions being referred to. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

40%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "vague expressions" is a common and grammatically correct term used to describe language that lacks clarity or precision. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, highlighting its relevance in various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While it can be useful in certain situations, such as softening criticism, it's generally best to avoid "vague expressions" in favor of more specific and concrete language to ensure clear communication. When precision is key, replace "vague expressions" with alternatives like "imprecise terms" or "ambiguous language".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imprecise terms

Replaces "expressions" with "terms", focusing on the lack of precision in language.

ambiguous language

Substitutes "vague" with "ambiguous" and "expressions" with "language", highlighting the potential for multiple interpretations.

unclear wording

Uses "unclear" instead of "vague" and "wording" instead of "expressions", emphasizing the lack of clarity in the choice of words.

indefinite statements

Replaces "vague" with "indefinite" and "expressions" with "statements", focusing on the lack of defined limits or boundaries in what is said.

general remarks

Suggests a lack of specific detail, replacing "vague" with "general" and "expressions" with "remarks".

nebulous comments

Replaces "vague" with "nebulous" to emphasize the hazy or ill-defined nature of the expressions, using "comments" as an alternative to "expressions".

fuzzy notions

Emphasizes the lack of clarity with "fuzzy", replacing "expressions" with "notions" to highlight the conceptual aspect.

ill-defined phrases

Highlights the absence of clear definition, substituting "vague" with "ill-defined" while retaining a similar structure.

loose descriptions

Focuses on the lack of precision in descriptive language, using "loose" as a substitute for "vague" and "descriptions" for "expressions".

evasive remarks

Highlights the intent to avoid clarity or specificity, suggesting a deliberate vagueness.

FAQs

How can I avoid using "vague expressions" in my writing?

Focus on providing specific details and concrete examples. Replace abstract terms with precise language and ensure your wording leaves no room for misinterpretation. Consider using "precise language" instead.

What is the impact of using "vague expressions" on the clarity of a text?

Using "vague expressions" can significantly reduce the clarity of a text, leading to confusion and miscommunication. Clear and concise language is essential for effective communication. Replacing them with "clear expressions" will make your text more readable.

When might it be appropriate to use "vague expressions"?

While clarity is generally preferred, "vague expressions" might be used intentionally in situations where you want to avoid being overly specific or direct, such as in diplomatic contexts or when softening criticism. However, always consider your audience and the potential for misunderstanding.

What are some common examples of "vague expressions"?

Examples of "vague expressions" include phrases like "some time ago", "a number of", "in the near future", and "various factors". These phrases lack specific details and can be interpreted differently by different people. Try using a "specific expression" to replace it.