What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vague
Example
The instructions were too vague for me to understand. [vague: adjective]
Example
She spoke in vague terms about her plans for the future. [vague: adverb]
indefinite
Example
He has an indefinite amount of time to complete the project. [indefinite: adjective]
Example
The meeting was postponed indefinitely due to scheduling conflicts. [indefinitely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vague is more commonly used than indefinite in everyday language. Vague is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while indefinite is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between vague and indefinite?
Both vague and indefinite can be used in formal and informal contexts, but indefinite may be more appropriate in formal writing or situations where precision is required.