The Language of Argument

2 7 7

V a g u e n e s s

a lightweight. This example illustrates a common problem and its solution.

A term that works perfectly well in one area becomes vague when applied

in some other (usually more specialized) area. This vagueness can then be

removed by adopting more precise rules in the problematic area. Vagueness

is resolved by definition.

For each of the following terms, give one case to which the term clearly applies,

one case to which the term clearly does not apply, and one borderline case.

Then try to explain why the borderline case is a borderline case.

Example: In the northern hemisphere, “summer month” clearly applies to July; clearly

does not apply to January; and June is a borderline case, because the summer solstice

is June 21, and schools usually continue into June, but June, July, and August are,

nonetheless, often described as the summer months.

1. large animal


2. populous country


3. long book


4. old professor


5. popular singer


6. powerful person


7. difficult subject


8. late meeting


9. arriving late to a meeting

Each of the following sentences contains words or expressions that are

potentially vague. Describe a context in which this vagueness might make a

difference, and explain what difference it makes. Then reduce this vagueness

by replacing the italicized expression with one that is more precise.

Example: Harold has a bad reputation.

Context: If Harold applies for a job as a bank security guard, then some but not all

kinds of bad reputation are relevant. A reputation for doing bad construction work is

irrelevant, but a reputation for dishonesty is relevant.

Replacement: Harold is a known thief.

1. Ross has a large income.


2. Cocaine is a dangerous drug.


3. Ruth is a clever woman.


4. Andre is a terrific tennis player.

exercise I

exercise II

(continued)

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