vague command

[/veɪɡ ˈkɒmɑːnd/]
nounpl: vague commands
comando vago
1. An instruction or order that lacks clarity, specificity, or clear direction, making it difficult for the recipient to understand exactly what is expected
The manager gave a vague command to improve efficiency without explaining what specific changes were needed.
O gerente deu um comando vago para melhorar a eficiência sem explicar quais mudanças específicas eram necessárias.
2. A directive that is imprecise in its terms, objectives, or expected outcomes
The teacher's vague command to 'do better on the next assignment' left students confused about expectations.
O comando vago do professor para 'fazer melhor na próxima tarefa' deixou os alunos confusos sobre as expectativas.
The concept of 'vague command' is particularly relevant in both American and Brazilian workplaces, where clarity in instructions is valued for productivity. In Brazilian corporate culture, the phrase 'comando vago' highlights communication inefficiency, while in the US, ambiguous directives are often criticized as poor leadership. The phrase is commonly used in management training and organizational communication contexts across both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
unclear instructionambiguous orderimprecise directivefuzzy commandindefinite instruction
Antonyms / Antônimos
clear commandexplicit instructionprecise directivespecific orderunambiguous command

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
comando vago
Standard translation used in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
ordem confusa
Alternative colloquial expression emphasizing confusion
São Paulo
instrução imprecisa
More formal corporate/business usage
Portugal
comando impreciso
Portuguese variant with slight preference for 'impreciso' over 'vago'

Related Words

ambiguityclaritydirectiveinstructionorderspecification

Related Idioms & Phrases

leave someone in the dark
speak in riddles
beat around the bush
it's all Greek to me
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