What does vaguely mean Meaning and Definition
What does vaguely mean
Pronunciation
/ˈdʒəvbli mēn/
Part of Speech
Noun, Verb
Definition
A feeling or idea that is not clear or specific, often referring to a sense of uncertainty or lack of precision.
Examples
- The critic found the plot of the movie to be vague and confusing.
- I’m not sure what your plan is, can you explain it more vaguely and I’ll try to understand.
Synonyms
- Fuzzy
- Indistinct
- Cryptic
Etymology
The word “vaguely” comes from the Old English “wæg” meaning “to wander” and the suffix “-ly” which forms an adverb.
Usage Notes
When used as a noun, “vaguely” refers to a feeling or idea that is not clear or specific. When used as a verb, it means to describe or refer to something in a way that lacks precision.
Cultural References
In the movie “The Matrix,” the character Morpheus explains the nature of reality to Neo, saying “You take the blue pill, you stay in Fantasia land, you stay in the world of the vague and the unclear.” This quote highlights the concept of vagueness and its relation to reality.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- In a vague sort of way
- Not exactly, but vaguely
- Vaguely recall
Related Words or Phrases
- Unclear
- Ambiguous
- Equivocal
- Precise
Collocations
- Vaguely familiar
- Vaguely remembered
- Vaguely recalled
Frequency of Use
The word “vaguely” is frequently used in everyday language to describe something that is unclear or lacks precision.
Common Misspellings
- Viewly
- Veigly
- Vaeily