Vagueness refers to a lack of clear or precise meaning in language or concepts. It occurs when a term or statement does not have a specific boundary, making it difficult to determine its exact application. For example, the word tall can be vague because what is considered tall can vary from person to person.
In philosophy and linguistics, vagueness is often discussed in relation to ambiguity and indeterminacy. While ambiguity involves multiple meanings, vagueness allows for a range of interpretations without a clear distinction. This can lead to misunderstandings in communication and challenges in legal contexts, where precise definitions are crucial.