Translation guide
The English word "vague" covers several related ideas: lack of clarity, lack of detail, evasiveness, and faintness. Japanese uses different words and expressions depending on the nuance. This guide helps you choose the right one.
When something is not clearly expressed or defined, leaving room for interpretation.
The most direct equivalent for 'vague' in the sense of ambiguous or unclear. Used for statements, memories, rules, etc.
彼の説明は曖昧だった。
His explanation was vague.
曖昧な記憶しかない。
I only have a vague memory.
Literally 'not clear.' Often used for sounds, images, or speech that is physically unclear, but can also mean vague in meaning.
音声が不明瞭で聞き取れなかった。
The audio was vague and I couldn't make it out.
Vague in a broad, undefined way. Often used for abstract ideas, anxieties, or plans that lack concrete shape.
漠然とした不安がある。
I have a vague sense of anxiety.
将来について漠然とした考えしか持っていない。
I only have a vague idea about the future.
When a description, plan, or answer is too general and lacks specifics.
Rough, approximate, or lacking in detail. Often used for estimates, descriptions, or people who are not meticulous.
大雑把な説明で十分です。
A vague (rough) explanation is fine.
彼は大雑把な性格だ。
He has a vague (careless) personality.
Simply means 'not specific.' A straightforward way to say something is vague in terms of detail.
その計画はまだ具体的じゃない。
The plan is still vague.
Abstract, not concrete. Used when ideas are theoretical and lack tangible details.
When someone avoids giving a clear answer or commitment.
To be evasive or beat around the bush; literally 'to muddy one's words.' Used when someone gives a vague answer on purpose.
彼は質問に言葉を濁した。
He gave a vague answer to the question.
Not clear, indefinite. Can describe a person's attitude or answer that is vague and non-committal.
彼の返事ははっきりしなかった。
His reply was vague.
Uncertain, unreliable, vague. Often used for answers or knowledge that is shaky.
When a shape, sound, or feeling is barely perceptible.
Faint, dim, barely noticeable. Used for sounds, lights, smells, or hopes.
かすかな音が聞こえた。
I heard a vague (faint) sound.
かすかな希望を抱く。
To have a vague (faint) hope.
Dimly, vaguely, absentmindedly. Can describe seeing something indistinctly or thinking vaguely.
曖昧 (aimai) is the most common for 'vague' in the sense of ambiguous meaning. 漠然 (bakuzen) implies something broad and undefined, often used for feelings or abstract ideas. 不明瞭 (fumeiryou) is more about physical clarity (sound, image) or formal unclearness.
In many situations, Japanese speakers prefer specific negative forms like はっきりしない (not clear) or 具体的じゃない (not specific) rather than a direct adjective. Using these can sound more natural.
The talk is too vague (abstract) to understand.
あやふやな返事をする。
To give a vague reply.
遠くに山がぼんやり見える。
The mountains are vaguely visible in the distance.
ぼんやりとした記憶。
A vague memory.