Vagueness
Vagueness is a common element of unclear communication where words or phrases lack precision or specific details, often used to evade direct answers.
THE IDEA
Vagueness
Vagueness is perhaps the most common element found in unclear communication. A word or phrase is vague if it is imprecise or lacks specific clarifying details. For example:
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"It is obvious that Mary is special." – The word "special" is not clear. Mary might be special because she is someone's lover, or because she is mentally challenged, or because she is entitled to some privilege.
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Person A: "What do you do for a living?" Person B: "I am an artist." – The word "artist" is vague. Is the person a painter? A sculptor? A songwriter? A poet? The answer may be adequate for a broad question; if the medium matters, ask a follow-up. Its lack of detail alone does not establish evasion.
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Judge: "Where were you on the night of December fourteenth?" Defendant: "I was out." – The response leaves the location unspecified. That may be evasive, but intent requires more context.
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Veronica: "How is your first semester going at UC Berkeley, George?" George: "Oh, you know, it is what it is." – This vague answer does not reveal how George's first semester is going.
Ask which detail is needed for the purpose of the conversation. A follow-up about the person, place, time, or standard being used can turn an underspecified answer into one you can evaluate.
When to use it
In legal settings, witnesses and defendants may use vague language to avoid giving incriminating details.
In business, vague statements about project progress can lead to misaligned expectations and poor decisions.
In personal relationships, vague answers to direct questions can cause frustration and misunderstandings.
In news reporting, vague language can obscure important facts and mislead readers.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Vague Word 'special'
It is obvious that Mary is special. The word 'special' is imprecise; Mary might be special for various reasons.
Vague Response 'artist'
Person A asks what Person B does for a living. Person B replies 'I am an artist.' The word 'artist' is vague; it could mean painter, sculptor, etc.
Vague Alibi 'out'
Judge asks defendant where she was on a specific night. Defendant says 'I was out.' The response does not specify a location. A follow-up is needed before judging either the alibi or the reason for its lack of detail.
Vague Platitude 'it is what it is'
Veronica asks how George's first semester is going. George replies 'Oh, you know, it is what it is.' This vague answer does not reveal specific details.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think of a recent conversation where you received a vague response. What specific follow-up question could you ask to gain clarity?
Identify a piece of vague language in a news headline or article. What details are missing that would make it more precise?
How can you avoid vagueness in your own communication? What strategies can you use to be more clear and specific?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Informal Logical Fallacies A Brief Guide