vaguely — in a way that is unclear, imprecise, or not clearly expressed
Part of speech: ADVERB
Definition: in a way that is unclear, imprecise, or not clearly expressed
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈveɪɡli/
Example Sentences
- The professor vaguely explained quantum physics, leaving everyone more confused than before.
- She vaguely nodded during the meeting while secretly playing games on her phone.
- I vaguely recall promising to do something important, but I can't remember what.
vaguely
ADVERB[/ˈveɪɡli/]
in a way that is unclear, imprecise, or not clearly expressed

Holding the clear old photograph, the man could only vaguely remember the face of his childhood friend.

VAST(huge) + GUESS(estimate) — in the VAST white fog, the driver could only GUESS the shape of the bridge vaguely.

To drive safely in the heavy storm, you must slow down when the car ahead is seen only vaguely.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Derived from Latin vagus, meaning 'wandering' or 'roaming'. The word evolved to describe an unclear or indefinite state, as if thoughts wander without settling in one place, developing the sense of being imprecise or unfocused.
Breakdown
vagus (wandering, roaming) + -ly (adverbial suffix forming an adverb from an adjective).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The professor vaguely explained quantum physics, leaving everyone more confused than before.”
“She vaguely nodded during the meeting while secretly playing games on her phone.”
“I vaguely recall promising to do something important, but I can't remember what.”
“The map was so old that the landmarks were only vaguely visible.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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