vaguely

UK: ˈveɪɡli | US: ˈveɪɡli

Definition

  1. adv. in a way that is unclear, imprecise, or uncertain

  2. adv. slightly or faintly

Structure
vague <unclear>ly <adverb suffix>
Etymology

The word "vaguely" stems from the French "vague" (meaning "wandering, vague"), which itself derives from Latin "vagus" (wandering, uncertain). The suffix "-ly" is an Old English adverbial marker, turning adjectives into adverbs. Combined, "vaguely" literally means "in an unclear or uncertain manner," reflecting its modern usage to describe indistinctness or slightness.

Examples

  1. She vaguely remembered meeting him years ago.

  2. The instructions were written too vaguely to follow.

  3. He nodded vaguely, not fully understanding the question.

  4. The outline of the mountain was vaguely visible in the fog.

  5. Her answer was vaguely related to the topic.