vague

[veɪɡ]

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Something is vague if its meaning or details are unclear and hard to understand. It's like trying to read a book through frosted glass.

When we talk about something being vague, it usually means that there's not enough information or clarity about what's going on. Imagine you're trying to plan a trip with someone who keeps changing their mind or giving cryptic answers – their plans are probably quite vague. Or maybe you asked a teacher to explain a tricky concept in class and they gave you an answer that didn't make sense – it was too vague for your liking.

How common is "vague"?

Word vague is considered uncommon in modern English.
It has a balanced usage among all categories: speech, fiction, newspapers and academic texts.

Definitions

noun

A wandering; a vagary.
An indefinite expanse.

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verb

To wander; to roam; to stray.
To become vague or act in a vague manner.

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adjective

Not clearly expressed; stated in indefinite terms.
Not having a precise meaning.
Example: a vague term of abuse
Not clearly defined, grasped, or understood; indistinct; slight.
Example: I haven’t the vaguest idea.
Not clearly felt or sensed; somewhat subconscious.
Example: a vague longing
Not thinking or expressing one’s thoughts clearly or precisely.
Lacking expression; vacant.
Not sharply outlined; hazy.
Wandering; vagrant; vagabond.