vague manner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vague manner" is correct and usable in written English.
It is usually used to describe when someone speaks or acts in an unclear or indefinite fashion. For example: "John continued to discuss the issue in a vague manner, not providing any clear solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

The phenomenon is called overgeneral memory, a tendency to recall past events in a broad, vague manner.

The New York Times - Health

The state bar says the bill "may be laudatory in principle," but contains other flaws, including defining "defect" in a vague manner.

The New York Times

Mr Komorowski's shortcomings (wooden vague manner, gaffe-prone) seemed to have been outweighed by the popularity of his sponsor, the prime minister Donald Tusk.

The Economist

"Gaza is totally under Hamas's control," said one of three such major officials, all of whom agreed to speak only if identified in this vague manner, and all of whose assessments were the same.

The New York Times

It is not an auspicious start, but it is followed by a sly smile, then another equally long pause, after which he elaborates in what I will soon come to recognise as a typically vague manner.

The Guardian - Arts

Baggott, who retires from the most challenging job in UK policing after the summer, said it had been wrong of Sinn Féin to question "the motivation or impartiality of police officers tasked with investigating serious crime in this very public, generalised and vague manner".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The soldiers moved around them in a vague, ambitious manner; they did not dare to approach, though one brash, sassy fellow went to the edge of the promontory and called, "Yo te quiero mucho!" The words returned with the hollow sub-music of a perfect echo, and the sisters, blushing, looked more deeply into the valley.

The New Yorker

But their stylishness and vaguely ironic manner do suggest self-consciousness in their approach to being in a band.

The Guardian - Music

I think we all approach life in a vaguely similar manner, the creative urge is in us all.

The Guardian - Music

It's a function of the man's opaque and vaguely unnerving manner that one wonders if this is a euphemism.

The Guardian - Arts

This old-established Glasgow firm was then run by Coia, the son of Italian immigrants, and was designing Roman Catholic churches in a vaguely traditional manner.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vague manner", ensure the context provides enough information for the reader to understand the lack of clarity being described. Avoid using it as a substitute for specific criticism. Instead, elaborate on why the manner is vague.

Common error

Avoid simply stating something is done in a "vague manner" without explaining what makes it vague. Provide details about the lack of specificity or clarity to give your statement more impact and informativeness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vague manner" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. It indicates a lack of clarity or precision in the way something is done or expressed. Ludwig examples showcase it describing speech, writing, and actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

17%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

6%

Formal & Business

6%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vague manner" is a versatile phrase used to describe actions or communication lacking clarity. Ludwig's analysis, combined with numerous real-world examples, confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, its effectiveness relies on providing sufficient context to illustrate the specific nature of the vagueness. Remember, as Ludwig AI notes, the phrase is most informative when the lack of clarity is further elaborated upon, rather than simply stated. While alternatives like "imprecise way" or "unclear fashion" can be used, "vague manner" remains a direct and widely understood way to convey a lack of precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

imprecise way

Focuses on the lack of precision in the method or action.

unclear fashion

Emphasizes the lack of clarity in how something is done.

indistinct style

Highlights the lack of clear definition in the approach.

ambiguous approach

Stresses the open-endedness and potential for multiple interpretations of the method.

nebulous style

Suggests a hazy and undefined characteristic of the method.

ill-defined procedure

Highlights the absence of a clear and established procedure.

loosely defined manner

Focuses on the lack of strictness or precision in the method.

general terms

Emphasizes the broad and non-specific nature of the description.

obfuscated method

Implies a deliberate attempt to make the method unclear or confusing.

evasive response

Highlights the act of avoiding directness and clarity in answering.

FAQs

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

You can use "vague manner" to describe actions, speech, or writing that lacks clarity or precision. For example, "The witness described the events in a "vague manner", making it difficult to understand what truly happened."

What are some alternatives to saying "vague manner"?

Some alternatives to "vague manner" include "imprecise way", "unclear fashion", or "ambiguous approach". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to be specific or use a "vague manner" in writing?

In most cases, specificity is preferred in writing for clarity and impact. However, using a "vague manner" can be appropriate when intentionally creating mystery, avoiding commitment, or describing something that is inherently unclear.

What does it mean when someone acts in a "vague manner"?

When someone acts in a "vague manner", it typically means their actions or words are not clear, direct, or precise. This can be intentional, to avoid giving a direct answer or making a firm commitment, or unintentional, due to uncertainty or lack of understanding.