What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
imprecise
Example
The directions were imprecise and we got lost. [imprecise: adjective]
Example
She spoke in imprecise terms, making it difficult to understand her point. [imprecise: adverb]
vague
Example
He gave a vague answer that didn't really address the question. [vague: adjective]
Example
I have a vague memory of visiting that place when I was a child. [vague: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vague is more commonly used than imprecise in everyday language. Vague is a more general term that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while imprecise is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between imprecise and vague?
Both imprecise and vague are relatively formal words that are not commonly used in casual conversation. However, imprecise may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, while vague is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formal and informal contexts.
