Vague: meaning, definitions and examples

When something is unclear or lacks detail. Often used for descriptions, memories, or statements that are not specific.

• Her instructions were so vague that I didn't know what to do

When something is not sure or lacks certainty. Often used to describe conditions, outcomes, or plans that are not definite.

• She felt uncertain about the future

When something does not have a clear end or limit. Often used to describe periods of time or quantities that are not precisely defined.

• The project has been postponed for an indefinite period

When something can be interpreted in more than one way. Frequently used in situations involving language, meaning, or intentions.

• The contract's terms were ambiguous, leading to different interpretations

When something is difficult to understand or not well-known. Can refer to things that are hidden or not easily seen.

• The origins of the tradition are obscure to most people

Use this word when something is not clear or specific. It often implies a lack of detail or clarity.

• Her description of the event was vague, leaving us with more questions than answers
• His memory of the incident was very vague

This is appropriate when something is not exact or accurate, lacking clear definition or specificity.

• The instructions were imprecise, leading to multiple errors
• Her imprecise language made it difficult to comprehend her point

Use this word for something that is not clearly distinguishable or easily identified.

• The indistinct sounds from the forest made it hard to recognize any animals
• His indistinct speech made it challenging to understand him

Use this word when something is partially obscured or covered, especially by something like fog or mist. It can also describe unclear memories or thoughts.

• The mountains appeared hazy in the distance
• After the accident, his recollections were hazy

This word is often used to describe something that is blurry, unclear, or not sharp. It can refer to visual or mental clarity.

• The photograph came out fuzzy because the camera was shaking
• My mind feels fuzzy after staying up all night

Use 'vague' when something is not clearly expressed, lacks detail, or is ambiguous. This word often has a slightly negative connotation because it implies confusion or lack of precision.

• Her instructions were vague, so we didn't know what to do.
• He gave a vague answer that didn't satisfy anyone's curiosity.

Use 'generalize' when making broad statements or conclusions that apply to many situations, often based on limited information. This term can be neutral but sometimes has a negative tone if it oversimplifies complex situations.

• It's important not to generalize about people based on stereotypes.
• She tends to generalize everything, which can lead to misunderstandings.

Use 'sketch' when giving a rough, preliminary version of something, often in a visual context but can also apply to ideas or plans. This word is generally neutral and is associated with an initial or incomplete version of a work.

• She sketched a quick drawing of the landscape.
• The architect sketched the initial design of the building.

Use 'outline' when providing a brief summary or overview of the main points or structure of a subject. This word is generally neutral and is often used in academic or formal settings.

• The teacher asked us to outline the main events of the story.
• He outlined his plan for the new project in the meeting.