understood loosely
[/ˌʌndərˈstʊd ˈluːsli/]
verb phrase (past participle + adverb)
entendido de forma vaga; compreendido amplamente
1. Interpreted or comprehended in a broad, non-literal, or imprecise manner without strict adherence to exact details
The term 'artificial intelligence' is understood loosely in everyday conversation to mean any computer system that mimics human thinking.
O termo 'inteligência artificial' é entendido de forma vaga em conversas cotidianas para significar qualquer sistema de computador que imita o pensamento humano.
2. Accepted or interpreted with flexibility regarding exact meaning or boundaries
The rule was understood loosely by most employees, leading to inconsistent application.
A regra era entendida de forma ampla pela maioria dos funcionários, levando a uma aplicação inconsistente.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts when discussing legal interpretations, academic definitions, or social conventions that allow for flexibility in meaning. In Brazilian Portuguese academic environments, it's often expressed as 'entendido amplamente' or 'compreendido de modo vago,' while in Portugal, 'sentido lato' is a more formal equivalent.
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