vague objects

[/veɪɡ ˈɑːbdʒɪkts/]
nounpl: vague objects
objetos vagos
1. In philosophy and logic, objects whose boundaries or properties are not precisely defined; entities that lack clear identity conditions or definite spatial/temporal limits
The Ship of Theseus is considered a classic example of vague objects in metaphysics.
O Navio de Teseu é considerado um exemplo clássico de objetos vagos na metafísica.
2. Physical or conceptual entities whose characteristics, composition, or extent cannot be determined with certainty or precision
Clouds and heaps are often cited as vague objects in philosophical discussions.
Nuvens e montes são frequentemente citados como objetos vagos em discussões filosóficas.
3. Things or concepts that lack well-defined boundaries or that do not have a determinate answer to questions about their identity
The problem of vague objects challenges our understanding of what constitutes a distinct entity.
O problema dos objetos vagos desafia nossa compreensão do que constitui uma entidade distinta.
This is a specialized philosophical and logical term used primarily in academic contexts in both Brazil and the United States. It addresses fundamental questions about identity, existence, and categorization that have been debated since antiquity. The concept is central to contemporary debates in metaphysics and philosophy of language, particularly regarding how language carves up reality.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
indeterminate objectsfuzzy objectsborderline casesill-defined entities
Antonyms / Antônimos
precise objectswell-defined objectsdeterminate objectsclearly bounded entities

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
objetos vagos
Standard philosophical terminology used in academic contexts
Portugal
objetos vagos
Same terminology used in European Portuguese philosophical discourse
Academic English
vague objects
Technical term primarily used in analytical philosophy and logic courses

Related Words

ontologymetaphysicsidentity conditionssorites paradoxmereologybundle theory

Related Idioms & Phrases

drawing the line
defining boundaries
setting parameters
clear-cut distinction
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